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Living Infrastructure on Cargo Ships with Integrated Aquaculture and Filtration Systems

Author:
Alexander Carolan
Living Infrastructure on Cargo Ships with Integrated Aquaculture and Filtration Systems

Project in-detail

Constructed atop repurposed cargo ships, a modular community integrates aquaculture and innovative seawater filtration systems to create a sustainable living environment on the ocean.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed on repurposed cargo ships to optimize maritime resources.
02
Features integrated aquaculture for sustainable food sourcing.
03
Utilizes a seawater filtration system for water supply needs.
04
Encourages community adaptability with modular living spaces.
05
Design promotes social interaction through open communal areas.

Co-Op Ocean introduces a sustainable community situated on the ocean, aiming to address the challenges of rising sea levels and the scarcity of habitable land. The design focuses on adaptive, modular living, where residential and commercial areas coexist in a cohesive setting. By repurposing existing cargo ships as foundational platforms, the project utilizes available maritime resources to create functional living spaces that prioritize community interaction.

Community Integration

The layout of Co-Op Ocean is thoughtfully organized to encourage social connections among residents. Living spaces are located alongside areas for commercial activities, promoting collaboration and exchange. Open gaps within the design allow natural light and fresh air to flow into communal areas, which serve as inviting spaces for gathering and interaction. This arrangement fosters a sense of belonging and community among those who live and work in the environment.

Sustainable Resource Management

Access to food and water is a key consideration in the design. Residents are encouraged to participate in aquaculture and fishing, directly sourcing their food from the surrounding waters. A seawater filtration system provides a means to meet the community’s water needs, complemented by rainwater collection systems that enhance self-sufficiency. The emphasis on managing these essential resources reflects a commitment to sustainability and resilience in a changing world.

Structural Innovation

The structural framework is based on a closely arranged grid that supports the weight of the community while also providing stability against environmental forces. Exterior bracing is utilized to fortify the structure against wind and other challenges associated with living on the water. This approach balances practical considerations with a clear understanding of the unique demands of maritime living, contributing to a safe and enduring environment.

Co-Op Ocean presents an engaging living experience where residents are actively connected to their maritime surroundings. The design allows for easy movement while embracing the distinct possibilities of life at sea, creating a vibrant community that adapts to the ocean's rhythms.

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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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