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

Authors:
Lingzi Yuan, Jinhao Wen
Modular Floating Habitat Crafted from Camphor Wood and Eco-Friendly Materials for Sustainable Fishing Communities

Project in-detail

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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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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