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Floating Microhomes Crafted with Bio-Concrete and Designed for Adaptive Living

Authors:
Dominick Kasal, Brad Ingram, Pedro Serrano
Floating Microhomes Crafted with Bio-Concrete and Designed for Adaptive Living

Project in-detail

Rotating microhomes constructed from bio-concrete float seamlessly above the ocean, integrating advanced water collection systems and energy-efficient turbines to support a sustainable community living experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rotating microhomes allow residents to adjust their living environment based on personal preference.
02
Integrated water collection systems maximize resource efficiency in a marine setting.
03
Constructed with bio-concrete utilizing volcanic ash for improved durability and sustainability.
04
Floating platforms enhance marine biodiversity by supporting aquatic habitats.
05
Energy production through underwater turbines reinforces the community's self-sufficiency.

### Project Overview

MicroPELAGO is situated on the ocean's surface and introduces floating micro-housing units designed to foster a sustainable lifestyle that interacts closely with marine ecosystems. The development comprises an interconnected network of microhomes anchored to three slender towers, emphasizing ecological responsibility and promoting community engagement within an aquatic context. Residents can adjust their living environments according to personal preferences through a core that allows rotational movement, enhancing privacy and interaction with nature.

### Material and Structural Strategy

The structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of MicroPELAGO are achieved through the innovative use of materials. Lightweight, monolithic 3D printed concrete serves as the primary construction material, minimizing waste while ensuring durability in harsh marine conditions. This is complemented by the use of bio-concrete enriched with volcanic ash to extend longevity. Transparent glass elements enhance interior brightness and foster a visual connection to the surrounding environment. Rainwater collection systems are integrated into the design, demonstrating a commitment to resource efficiency and sustainability.

The homes are organized around a central core that houses essential utilities and community spaces. This includes distinct sections for entry, living, kitchen, and sleeping areas, each designed to facilitate multifunctionality. The towers function as both structural elements and community hubs, capable of independent rotation to offer varied views and levels of privacy. Additionally, underwater turbines contribute to the energy needs of the development, supporting its off-grid capabilities while promoting a lifestyle harmonized with the oceanic environment.

### Community Integration and Biodiversity

MicroPELAGO extends its influence beyond the microhomes, incorporating platforms designed for communal use and direct interaction with marine life. These features facilitate a lifestyle closely aligned with nature, transitioning from conventional habitats to spaces that enhance biodiversity and support ecological resilience. The design focuses on fostering a vibrant community life while respecting and uplifting the surrounding ecosystem, positioning MicroPELAGO as a case study in sustainable architectural practice.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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