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Floating Units With Recycled Plastics and Galvanized Steel for Sustainable Urban Living

Authors:
Ai Narita, Nevena Popovic
Floating Units With Recycled Plastics and Galvanized Steel for Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Modular floating units constructed from galvanized steel and recycled plastics provide a resilient and sustainable solution for community living in Hong Kong's waterfront urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units designed for easy reconfiguration promote flexible living arrangements.
02
Constructed with recycled plastics to enhance sustainability in a marine environment.
03
Galvanized steel frames provide durability and corrosion resistance unique to coastal applications.
04
Integrated solar panels contribute to energy self-sufficiency for all units.
05
Promenade access fosters community interaction and recreational opportunities along the waterfront.
The Re-CLAIMING project in Hong Kong presents an architectural approach to residential living that synthesizes modern design with ecological sustainability. This project reinterprets the waterfront landscape through a series of floating residential units, addressing the challenges posed by land scarcity and environmental degradation in urban settings. By positioning itself on water, the project offers a new paradigm for community living while responding to the unique geographical features of Hong Kong.

Unique Floating Community Design

The Re-CLAIMING project is characterized by its use of modular floating units, designed to function as both living spaces and community hubs. Each unit has a footprint of 10 meters by 10 meters, allowing for flexibility in layout and configuration. The design incorporates communal spaces such as promenades and green areas, promoting social interaction among residents. This interaction is vital in fostering a sense of community in a location often characterized by high-density living. The building blocks utilize lightweight, durable materials, including galvanized steel and recycled plastics, which are pivotal in maintaining buoyancy and resisting corrosion in a marine environment. Additionally, eco-sensitive spaces filled with vegetation enhance the aesthetic quality and provide natural insulation, demonstrating a commitment to blending built environments with the natural landscape.

Architectural Response to Environmental Challenges

The project also functions as a practical response to environmental concerns, particularly rising sea levels due to climate change. The floating nature of the units allows for adaptive management of water levels, while the integration of solar panels supports energy self-sufficiency. Strategic landscaping with local flora contributes to biodiversity and promotes sustainability. The overall design serves not just as housing but as a resilient model that anticipates future urban challenges in coastal cities. The architectural considerations reflect a deep understanding of the interplay between natural systems and human habitation, setting it apart from typical residential projects that may overlook these critical dynamics.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Re-CLAIMING project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs presented in detail. These elements provide further insights into the innovative strategies employed, illustrating how this project represents a forward-thinking approach to urban architecture in waterfront settings.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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