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Floating Living Spaces Crafted from Charred Wooden Shingles and Canvas in a Riverine Community

Authors:
Paula Imperatore, Luke Olsen
Floating Living Spaces Crafted from Charred Wooden Shingles and Canvas in a Riverine Community

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wooden shingles and positioned on buoyant platforms, this community-focused development reimagines affordable housing along the Seine River, seamlessly blending nature with modern urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project employs charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability while providing a unique aesthetic appearance.
02
Floating platforms allow for adaptive living spaces that respond to rising water levels of the Seine River.
03
Community gardens are integrated into the design, promoting ecological awareness and social interaction.
04
Modular units facilitate personalized living arrangements that accommodate changing family dynamics.
05
The use of cross-laminated timber panels significantly reduces the carbon footprint of the construction process.
The 'Seine Je T'aime' project represents a thoughtful architectural endeavor specifically designed to address the growing need for affordable housing in Paris. Located along the scenic Seine River, the project reimagines residential living through the innovative incorporation of floating houses and artificial islands. This design reflects the dual goals of providing essential residential options while enhancing the connection between urban dwellers and the natural environment.

At its core, the project is about creating accessible living spaces that encourage community interaction. The floating houses are not only functional but are also designed with a consideration for sustainability and ecological balance. By utilizing a water-based platform, the project circumvents conventional land-use challenges and offers residents a unique lifestyle that embodies both urban and natural elements. The integration of artificial islands within this design further enhances the community aspect by providing additional space for social gatherings, recreational activities, and green areas, contributing to the overall well-being of its residents.

The architectural design features a modular approach, which allows for adaptability in unit configurations based on the needs and preferences of families or individuals. This adaptable design philosophy ensures that each home can evolve over time, accommodating the changing dynamics of its occupants. Additionally, communal spaces are strategically embedded within the layout, thereby promoting social ties among residents. This integration of shared facilities like gardens, kitchens, and recreational zones encourages a collaborative living environment, supporting a sense of belonging and community cohesion.

Examining the materials utilized in the project reveals a deliberate choice aimed at sustainability. Wood serves as a primary material, reflecting a commitment to renewable resources while offering warmth and aesthetic appeal. Canvas is employed for its lightweight properties, contributing to the overall flexibility of the architectural forms. Reinforced concrete is utilized to provide structural stability, particularly in the foundational elements of the floating platforms. Large expanses of glass are strategically incorporated into the design to maximize natural light within the living spaces and to afford residents panoramic views of the enchanting river landscape.

A unique aspect of the 'Seine Je T’aime' project is its responsiveness to the natural ebb and flow of the Seine River. The floating nature of the housing units allows for a dynamic interaction with the water, offering residents a distinctive perspective on urban living. The concept encourages residents to engage with the waterway, fostering a deeper appreciation for the surrounding environment. The architectural aesthetics embrace organic shapes that mirror the fluidity of the water, diverging from traditional rigid designs typically found in urban settings.

The integration of green spaces is another notable feature of this project. Not only do these spaces enhance the visual appeal, but they also contribute to ecological diversity. The design minimizes environmental impact by incorporating vegetation that supports local flora and fauna while creating a serene atmosphere for residents. By prioritizing the presence of nature, the project promotes outdoor living and healthy lifestyles.

As the design evolves, the project aims to stimulate dialogue around affordable housing and community development within urban landscapes. It challenges conventional notions of what residential architecture can be by positioning itself on the water, creating a new vocabulary for housing solutions. The project showcases how modern architecture can respond to both housing needs and environmental considerations, combining innovation with practicality.

For those interested in gaining further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas of the 'Seine Je T'aime' project, I encourage you to explore the detailed presentation. Engaging with these elements will provide a deeper understanding of the thoughtful considerations and design methodologies that underpin this unique architectural initiative.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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