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Inflatable Shelter Constructed with Reclaimed Inner Tubes and Tarpaulins for Sustainable Living

Authors:
Antonin Romary, Jeanne Zanardo
Inflatable Shelter Constructed with Reclaimed Inner Tubes and Tarpaulins for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Constructed from reclaimed inner tubes and tarpaulins, the inflatable micro-caravan provides a flexible living solution that engages local communities while promoting sustainable practices in the European countryside.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using reclaimed inner tubes and tarpaulins for sustainability.
02
Micro-caravan design allows for easy relocation to engage with different communities.
03
Inflatable structure creates a flexible, energy-efficient living environment.
04
Emphasizes local collaboration through on-site inhabitance by architects.
05
Bioclimatic features enhance comfort while minimizing environmental impact.

Cloud Base is an exploration of modern design, focusing on adaptability and ecological awareness. The project reflects a nomadic approach, drawing inspiration from the nature of clouds and incorporating this idea into a living structure. Located in the European countryside, Cloud Base serves as a resourceful habitat that connects with local communities.

Design Concept

The main idea behind Cloud Base is to create a lightweight and self-sufficient dwelling that can move across different landscapes. It allows for temporary settlements in rural areas, promoting interaction with local residents. By situating itself within various communities, the design encourages learning and sharing knowledge, reinforcing its role as a supportive resource.

Structural Innovation

The unique form of Cloud Base includes inflatable and detachable components. The micro-caravan can operate independently from the main tubular frame, resulting in separate spaces for living and technical functions. This flexibility supports diverse uses and enhances connections with the surrounding environment. The inflatable roof and walls provide a soft, energy-efficient shelter, contributing to the overall comfort of the dwelling.

Materials and Sustainability

Reclaimed materials play a key role in the construction of Cloud Base, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. Inner tubes, tarpaulins, metal posts, and old bicycles are used to provide structural strength while minimizing the impact on the environment through recycling methods. This choice of materials illustrates the effort to utilize available resources and supports the project’s ecological goals.

Interior Layout and Function

The interior of Cloud Base focuses on efficient use of space, incorporating essential living areas within a compact design. This layout promotes interaction between residents and their outdoor surroundings, enhancing the living experience. Each aspect of the arrangement is designed to encourage community involvement, paired with a responsive approach to the needs of rural life.

With its insulated micro-house, Cloud Base provides a comfortable living space that blends with its environment, offering a practical response to current housing challenges and environmental considerations.

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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
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