Get inspired!

17,179 architecture projects

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

Floating Structure Elevated on Pylons with Polycarbonate Walls for Resilient Community Living

Authors:
Bernard Tang Wei Kiet, Ow kar yong , Tan Wei Xiang , Sim Guan Ang
Floating Structure Elevated on Pylons with Polycarbonate Walls for Resilient Community Living

Project in-detail

Elevated on a floating pontoon foundation and constructed with polycarbonate panels for optimal light and water resistance, this design addresses flooding challenges while fostering a sustainable community living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure utilizes a floating pontoon foundation to enhance flood resilience.
02
Polycarbonate panels integrated for maximum natural light and minimal environmental impact.
03
Flexible interior spaces are designed for adaptability to changing community needs.
04
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system for self-sufficient water management.
05
Features a modular design approach to streamline construction and reduce waste.
The "Wuthering Wave" project is an architectural design initiative located in Hulu Langat, Malaysia. This project addresses the urgent need for resilient housing solutions in a region prone to flooding during the monsoon season. The design is focused on sustainability, functionality, and community engagement, resulting in a structure that serves as both a safe living space and a responsive architectural model that adapts to its environment.

The primary function of the "Wuthering Wave" is to provide safe, elevated dwellings capable of withstanding potential flooding. The building features a long rectangular form, elevated on pilings that ensure structural stability while allowing for groundwater flow during flood events. The roof structure is designed to facilitate rainwater harvesting, assisting residents in maintaining a self-sufficient water supply.

Architectural elements within the project include a combination of durable materials such as steel for the structure and polycarbonate panels for the walls, which enhance natural light while maintaining privacy and security. The internal layout promotes community interaction through shared spaces, integrating flexibility in room configurations to accommodate varying resident needs.

Unique Floating Design Approach

One distinguishing characteristic of the "Wuthering Wave" is its floating pontoon foundation system. This innovative support structure allows the entire building to remain above water levels during floods, ensuring that the living areas remain safe and accessible. This approach contrasts with traditional building foundations, which can be vulnerable to flooding. The design effectively eliminates the reliance on ground level infrastructure, providing an adaptable framework suited for flood-prone environments.

Another unique aspect of the project is its emphasis on renewable energy. The integration of solar panels and a rainwater harvesting system reflects a commitment to sustainability. This energy-efficient design reduces reliance on external resources while fostering an eco-conscious lifestyle for its residents.

Community-Centric Design Philosophy

The "Wuthering Wave" project incorporates a community-centric approach that emphasizes shared living and efficient use of space. Communal areas are strategically placed within the building layout, encouraging interaction and collaboration among residents. Adaptable furniture systems and multifunctional spaces reflect a flexible design that can accommodate changing household dynamics, making it suitable for various family sizes and lifestyles.

This thoughtful approach to community engagement ensures that the project does not merely serve as individual dwellings but fosters a sense of belonging and collective identity among residents. The design adopts local building practices and materials, grounding it in the cultural context of Hulu Langat while also addressing contemporary architectural needs.

For those interested in exploring this project further, a review of the architectural plans and sections would provide additional insights into the design strategies employed and the technical specifics of the construction. Understanding the architectural designs and ideas behind the "Wuthering Wave" will be beneficial for anyone looking to study adaptive and sustainable housing solutions.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
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
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 17,179 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