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Floating Structures With Steel Framework and Vertical Gardens Supporting Community Living

Authors:
Antonio Sepulveda Bustos, Jesus Vergara Delgado, Catherine Gutierrez Pezoa, Cristian Gonzalez
Floating Structures With Steel Framework and Vertical Gardens Supporting Community Living

Project in-detail

Elevated above water on a modular steel framework, this design incorporates vertical gardens and flexible communal spaces to foster a productive community environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structural framework allows for natural water flow below the living units.
02
Vertical gardens integrated into design enhance biodiversity and air quality.
03
Modular construction promotes flexibility in use and layout adaptation.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels provide thermal efficiency and sustainability.
05
Charred wooden shingles create a durable, low-maintenance exterior finish.
The "Floating Productive Housing" project is designed to address the evolving needs of urban coastal communities. This project integrates living and working spaces within a maritime context, creating a dynamic environment that fosters both social interaction and economic productivity. Positioned above the water on a modular structural framework, this design emphasizes resilience and sustainability while enhancing the relationship between residents and the aquatic landscape.

Innovative Structural Design
The project's unique structural approach includes a raised framework that allows for the natural flow of water underneath the housing units. This design choice minimizes land use impact, enabling the preservation of marine ecosystems. The incorporation of flexible communal spaces supports a wide range of activities, from markets to social events, creating opportunities for interaction and collaboration among residents. The adaptable nature of the spaces allows for diverse uses over time, ensuring long-term viability.

In addition to its structural integrity, the choice of materials significantly enhances the project's sustainability. The use of steel provides strength and durability, while reinforced concrete ensures thermal stability. Large glass panels create transparency and invite natural light into living spaces, connecting residents with their surroundings. Wood elements offer warmth and contribute to interior comfort, supporting a balanced living environment.

Community Integration and Cultural Reflection
A fundamental aspect of the "Floating Productive Housing" project is its focus on fostering community connections. The design incorporates shared facilities that promote social engagement and resource sharing among residents. By integrating local cultural elements into the architectural design, the project strengthens community identity and supports local artisanship. This holistic approach emphasizes the importance of social infrastructure in contemporary architecture.

The arrangement of housing units around communal spaces encourages neighborhood interaction. The integration of markets within the design stimulates local economic activity, promoting self-sufficiency among residents. The plan supports a micro-community structure where living and working coexist, enhancing overall quality of life.

In summary, the "Floating Productive Housing" project represents a forward-thinking response to urban challenges, merging architecture with environmental and social considerations. To explore this project further, readers are encouraged to review the architectural plans, sections, and design elements for a comprehensive understanding of its innovative ideas and functional spaces.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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