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Modular Floating Habitat Crafted from Camphor Wood and Eco-Friendly Materials for Sustainable Fishing Communities

Modular Floating Habitat Crafted from Camphor Wood and Eco-Friendly Materials for Sustainable Fishing Communities
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Crafted from locally sourced camphor wood and modular floating structures, this design revitalizes traditional fishing practices while providing sustainable living and workspace solutions for coastal communities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced camphor wood to enhance durability and sustainability.
02
Modular design allows for reconfiguration based on fishing seasons and communal needs.
03
Incorporates rainwater harvesting systems to promote resource efficiency.
04
Floating structures provide direct interaction with the marine environment for residents.
05
Sliding shutter doors enhance ventilation and connectivity between indoor and outdoor spaces.

## Overview

Located near Xiangang Village in Linghuli Autonomous County, Hainan Province, China, the Nomad Lodge of the Seas is a redesign of traditional fishing habitats aimed at revitalizing the ecological and cultural aspects of the Dan people, who possess a deep connection to aquaculture and fishing. This initiative focuses on sustainability and energy conservation while facilitating community interaction and preserving traditional fishing practices.

## Spatial Arrangement and Functionality

The project employs a modular design consisting of distinct functional blocks, which include a workshop, living area, kitchen, and restroom. This configuration allows flexibility to adapt to the varying needs of users and seasonal fishing patterns. Floating structures promote mobility, enabling them to shift locations based on ecological factors and optimizing fishing opportunities. The arrangement draws inspiration from traditional cabin layouts, ensuring both familiarity and modern utility. Features such as sliding shutter doors enhance ventilation and connectivity between indoor and outdoor environments.

## Sustainable Material Selection

The architectural design incorporates sustainable materials that minimize environmental impact and enhance longevity. Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) is used for its recycled content and durability, while locally sourced Camphor tree wood enriches the interiors. Complementary materials include density board for structural integrity, coconut palm for additional insulation, polythene for waterproofing, and aluminum alloy for lightweight structural components. The design also integrates energy systems utilizing solar panels and a comprehensive approach to rainwater collection and sewage treatment, reflecting an emphasis on resource preservation and ecological stewardship.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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