Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Floating Residences Constructed with Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wooden Shingles for Coastal Living

Authors:
William Chandra , Hsiang-yi Ho, Cheng-yang Huang
Floating Residences Constructed with Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wooden Shingles for Coastal Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles, these modular floating units provide sustainable and adaptable housing solutions to communities facing the challenges of rising sea levels.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced cross-laminated timber for enhanced durability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes structural integrity and space efficiency.
04
Utilizes an innovative rainwater harvesting system for sustainable water management.
05
Adaptable interior layouts allow for flexible use tailored to resident needs.

## Overview and Context

Located in Jakarta, Indonesia, the project addresses the urgent challenges posed by climate change, particularly in coastal regions susceptible to rising sea levels. The proposal consists of modular housing units designed to adapt to the evolving needs of residents while prioritizing sustainability. These floating modular structures serve as viable alternatives to traditional land-based homes, catering to the needs of a significant percentage of the global population residing in coastal areas.

## Spatial Configuration and User Adaptability

The design features a modular system comprising distinct units for Living Quarters, Private Quarters, and Transitional Modules, allowing for flexibility in how spaces are utilized. Each module is equipped with multifunctional elements; for example, the Living Quarter includes adaptable furniture such as folding tables to optimize space for diverse activities, from cooking to socializing. The Private Quarter is designed with a retractable bed to facilitate easy transformation of the space based on daily requirements, while the Transitional Module features a staircase that doubles as a social seating area, encouraging community interaction.

## Sustainability and Material Choices

The project emphasizes sustainable living through innovative systems and material selection. Key components include a mass timber frame, recognized for its strength and environmental benefits, and moisture-resistant insulation boards that contribute to energy efficiency. A rainscreen facade with tapering cassette designs offers climate adaptability and protection from environmental elements. Additionally, the integration of operable windows and skylights enhances natural ventilation and daylight, improving the overall living experience. Rainwater harvesting systems are incorporated to ensure water sustainability, a crucial aspect of supporting residents in flood-prone contexts. The collaboration with local builders reinforces community ties, justifying the project’s relevance in promoting local employment and cultural affinity.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy