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Marine Habitat Built Using Biodegradable Materials and Hexagonal Structures for Sustainable Living

Authors:
Leonardo Zuccaro Marchi, Shubham Majumder, Adrien Benjamin Clement Lotz, Ali Nazari, Amirhossein Adelfar, Ani Periashvili
Marine Habitat Built Using Biodegradable Materials and Hexagonal Structures for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Floating habitats crafted from biodegradable materials utilize hexagonal designs to enhance community interaction while promoting sustainable living in a marine environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Floating structures designed with marine biodiversity in mind, encouraging local ecosystem growth.
02
Utilizes innovative biodegradable materials to minimize environmental footprint.
03
Hexagonal layouts enhance community cohesion while offering privacy to residents.
04
Integrated aquaponics systems provide self-sustaining food production within the habitat.
05
Incorporates smart glass technology for energy efficiency and climate control.
The project "Beyond Laputa" represents a significant advancement in architectural design focused on sustainability and resilience in response to environmental challenges such as rising sea levels. This architectural concept outlines a community of floating homes that integrate seamlessly with aquatic ecosystems, offering a viable alternative to traditional land-based developments. The design prioritizes ecological balance, energy efficiency, and adaptable living spaces.

Architecturally, "Beyond Laputa" features homes constructed from sustainable materials, such as recycled polymers and natural fibers, ensuring minimal environmental impact. The rounded forms of the structures mimic organic shapes found in nature, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and functional adaptability. The project employs a hexagonal arrangement to promote community interaction while maintaining individual privacy, allowing for shared spaces alongside personal retreats. The envisioned modularity of these units also allows for future expansions or modifications based on inhabitants' needs.

Innovative Design Solutions

The project distinguishes itself through its unique approach to floating architecture. The structures are designed to extend vertically, interacting with the aquatic environment beneath them. This dual engagement with both air and water sets the project apart from typical residential designs, as it creates opportunities for biodiversity and marine growth. The architectural implementation of smart technologies, such as photovoltaic panels and integrated food production systems like aquaponics, reinforces self-sufficiency, making energy and food more accessible to residents.

Furthermore, "Beyond Laputa" integrates features aimed at preserving local ecosystems. By encouraging the growth of coral reefs and other marine life beneath the structures, the project fosters a sustainable interaction between human habitation and aquatic biodiversity, reflecting an understanding of the interconnectedness of life forms within these environments.

Architectural Innovation and Functionality

The architectural designs in "Beyond Laputa" prioritize functionality while addressing pressing environmental issues. The smart glass used in the construction enhances natural light intake while regulating temperature, contributing to overall energy efficiency. The material choices focus on renewable resources, with an emphasis on building techniques that reduce waste and promote circular economy principles.

Community spaces are thoughtfully integrated into the overall design, promoting social interaction and cooperation among residents. This project champions a lifestyle that values sustainability and community, a departure from the often isolating nature of traditional housing projects. "Beyond Laputa" invites exploration into how architecture can actively engage with ecological principles, encouraging architects and designers to rethink space utilization in harmony with nature.

For a more comprehensive understanding of "Beyond Laputa," including its architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, we encourage readers to explore the full project presentation. This architectural endeavor demonstrates a forward-thinking approach that challenges conventional notions of living in urban environments.
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MICROHOME
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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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