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Floating Structure of Hydrogen Balloons With Photovoltaic Skin and Levitating Capsules

Author:
Christina Schwalm
Floating Structure of Hydrogen Balloons With Photovoltaic Skin and Levitating Capsules

Project in-detail

Floating above the landscape, a structure supported by hydrogen balloons and wrapped in a photovoltaic skin offers levitating living capsules, redefining sustainable residential spaces in high-altitude environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes buoyant hydrogen balloons for structural support.
02
Incorporates a photovoltaic skin for energy generation.
03
Features levitating living capsules that rotate for views.
04
Employs advanced piezoelectric materials for energy capture.
05
Anchored with cables to ensure stability in high winds.

The Power Plant project is an innovative architectural design situated in Liechtenstein that merges sustainability with contemporary living. This vertical structure is conceived as a functioning energy hub, standing at an impressive height of 2169 meters and located 430 meters above sea level. The design explores the potential of integrating energy generation within urban living spaces, thereby promoting a new paradigm for architectural functionality and environmental stewardship.

The project aims to create a zero-carbon footprint building that serves both as a living space and an energy-generating facility. Its unique approach combines advanced materials and technologies to facilitate efficient energy production while offering residential and communal spaces. The interplay of these functions captures the essence of contemporary architecture in addressing modern challenges such as energy consumption and urbanization.

Unique Design Approaches

A defining feature of the Power Plant is its buoyant structure, supported by large hydrogen balloons, which enables it to float above the landscape. This innovative foundation not only reduces land impact but also allows for energy generation through solar and wind resources. The integration of photovoltaic foil on the building’s exterior enhances its solar energy capabilities, optimizing sustainability in its design.

The project also introduces advanced transportation systems, including provisions for helicopter and drone docking. This makes the building more accessible and transforms it into a vertical transportation hub. Additionally, the use of air cushions within the design allows for adaptability to environmental conditions, ensuring structural stability during adverse weather.

Another distinctive aspect of the Power Plant is its residential component, featuring sleeping capsules that rotate for panoramic views. This modular approach to living enables occupants to experience their surroundings in a novel way while maximizing space efficiency. The capsules, accessible via levitating elevators, facilitate a unique community experience in high-altitude living.

Architectural Implementation and Material Use

The Power Plant employs a variety of advanced materials, such as carbon fiber for structural integrity, AeroGel for thermal insulation, and piezoelectric materials that harness energy from movement. These materials contribute to the overall efficiency and functionality of the building, aligning with its goal of sustainable development. The thoughtful selection and application of these materials exemplify a commitment to innovative architectural solutions.

The project showcases architectural sections and plans that highlight its intricate design and spatial organization. Each layer of the building is designed to optimize energy flow and communal interaction, reflecting a carefully considered architectural approach. The integration of flexible design elements ensures the Power Plant remains resilient in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation to gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design of the Power Plant. Engage with the detailed architectural ideas that underpin this project to fully appreciate its contribution to sustainable architecture and modern urban design.

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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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