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Modular Elevation and Lightweight Wood Solutions for Resilient Living in the Mekong Delta

Authors:
Tien Nguyen, Khang Du, Anh Nguyen
Modular Elevation and Lightweight Wood Solutions for Resilient Living in the Mekong Delta

Project in-detail

Elevated modular living spaces crafted from lightweight wood offer adaptable resilience against seasonal flooding in the Mekong Delta, providing a sustainable housing solution for low-income residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular system adapts to seasonal flooding.
02
Interchangeable panels enhance living flexibility.
03
Lightweight wood construction enables rapid assembly.
04
Design focuses on low-income resident accessibility.
05
Natural ventilation integrated into panel arrangement.

The Mekong Delta, located in southwestern Vietnam, is characterized by a complex network of rivers and channels that define the area’s landscape and way of life. The project focuses on addressing the challenges posed by the region’s fluctuating water levels through a modular dwelling system. This design incorporates traditional architectural practices of elevating homes above potential flooding, merging them with modern modular approaches to create living spaces that can adapt effectively to the local environment.

Modular Dwelling System

At the heart of the design is a modular structure that allows residents to adjust their homes according to the changing water levels. Using prefabricated light wood frameworks and interchangeable panels, this system enables elevation during floods and allows for a return to ground level when waters recede. Such flexibility is vital in ensuring a functional living environment that can adjust to the dynamic conditions of the Mekong Delta.



Natural Ventilation and Light

The layout of the modular panels is carefully planned to enhance natural ventilation and light inside the homes. Windows and openings in the panels promote airflow and bring natural light into the living spaces. This design consideration helps create comfortable interiors while protecting occupants from harsh weather conditions. The result is an environment that supports well-being and connects residents to their surroundings.



Economic Feasibility

The project aims to serve low-income residents by incorporating affordable design strategies. The choice of inexpensive materials ensures that construction remains financially accessible. This focus on economic viability fits within the social context of the Mekong Delta, where many households experience limited financial resources. By prioritizing cost-effective solutions, the design promotes a sustainable approach that reduces dependence on non-renewable resources.



With its flexible design, the dwelling system establishes an ongoing relationship between the built environment and the natural landscape. Each modular home responds to seasonal water changes, demonstrating a practical solution that respects both traditional practices and modern needs. The project illustrates a commitment to creating living spaces that adjust to their environment while offering a functional and sustainable future for the residents of the Mekong Delta.

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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

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