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Floating Micro-Home Crafted From Eco-Friendly Materials with Biophilic Design Elements

Authors:
Chiara Crisà, Paolo Rizzo, Federica Sirangelo
Floating Micro-Home Crafted From Eco-Friendly Materials with Biophilic Design Elements

Project in-detail

A floating micro-home designed with modular elements and crafted from eco-friendly materials offers a unique solution to urban living while seamlessly integrating biophilic design for a more harmonious lifestyle.
5 key facts about this project
01
The home floats on water, addressing urban land scarcity creatively.
02
Constructed using cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural stability.
03
Features charred wooden shingles that provide both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
04
Incorporates a bent A-frame design, optimizing space while offering unique visual dynamics.
05
Equipped with rainwater harvesting systems to promote sustainability in urban environments.
The Symbiotic Home project presents a thoughtful approach to contemporary urban living, merging architectural innovation with practical solutions to modern challenges. Situated in an area characterized by high population density, this project embodies a response to the pressing issues associated with limited living space and the need for sustainable practices. The design is not merely a structure; it represents a vision of how architecture can harmonize with both nature and the urban environment.

Functionally, the Symbiotic Home serves as a multi-use dwelling that caters to the diverse needs of its occupants. With a compact layout, the design effectively maximizes every square foot while providing essential living, working, and leisure spaces. The central living area is designed for social interaction, featuring ample natural light and expansive views through large windows that foster a connection between indoor and outdoor environments. Adjacent to this space, a dedicated workstation accommodates the growing trend of remote work, ergonomically designed to enhance productivity without sacrificing comfort.

The sleeping quarters are thoughtfully elevated, utilizing vertical space to create an open feeling and providing privacy without compromising spatial efficiency. Additionally, the bathroom module incorporates environmentally friendly fixtures that align with the project’s commitment to sustainability. Each component within this architectural design serves a distinct purpose, highlighting the project’s core principle of functionality without excess.

A unique aspect of the Symbiotic Home is its floating structure, which challenges conventional notions of housing. By situating the home on water, the design transcends typical spatial limitations associated with urban environments. This characteristic not only offers unique aesthetic and experiential qualities but also underscores an innovative approach to dwelling in congested areas.

Another noteworthy feature of the Symbiotic Home is its adaptability. The integration of sustainable technologies, such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems, reflects a comprehensive understanding of environmental impact. These elements are not afterthoughts but integral aspects of the overall design, illustrating a genuine commitment to reducing the carbon footprint and promoting eco-conscious living.

The design process embraces biophilic principles, incorporating natural elements integral to the living experience. By emphasizing design elements such as landscaped outdoor areas and communal spaces, the project fosters a sense of community among residents while reinforcing the connection to the natural world. This focus results in an architectural expression that feels organic and in tune with its surroundings.

Across various aspects of the project, the utilization of materials plays a critical role in defining the architectural narrative. The thoughtful selection of wood for structural elements imparts warmth and sustainability, while glass is employed extensively to create transparency and engage the occupants with their environment. Steel is strategically used within the framework to provide durability and stability, ensuring the structure can withstand the test of time. The metal roofing contributes not only to the building's aesthetics but also serves a functional purpose by providing resilience against the elements.

The design approach taken in the Symbiotic Home project represents a forward-thinking outlook on urban living, underscoring the importance of creating spaces that are not only functional but also conducive to well-being and sustainability. This project stands as a testament to the principles of modern architecture, demonstrating how careful design can facilitate a more balanced coexistence between people and their environments.

For those interested in exploring further, delving into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas presented in this project will provide deeper insights into its unique design narrative and innovative solutions in contemporary architecture.
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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
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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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