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Modular Tetrahedron Bunkers for Community Safety in Karst Regions

Author:
Hyun gyu Goo
Modular Tetrahedron Bunkers for Community Safety in Karst Regions

Project in-detail

Constructed using modular tetrahedrons, the design provides robust bunkers for community safety in karst regions, addressing the urgent needs of urban areas prone to sinkholes.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units allow for quick deployment in emergency situations.
02
Design incorporates octet framework for enhanced structural stability.
03
Bunkers serve as community refuges during natural disasters.
04
Geographically tailored for areas prone to sinkhole activity.
05
Underground storage solutions support resource accessibility during evacuations.

The "SOS: Solid on Sinkhole" project addresses significant concerns related to sinkhole occurrences in urban areas. Located in regions where geological instability is common, the design aims to improve safety through effective architectural solutions. It centers around modular structures that offer flexibility and stability, focusing on the pressing need for protection in vulnerable locations.

Structural Framework

At the center of the design is an octet framework made of tetrahedrons and octahedrons. This geometric setup provides stability against ground pressure, essential in areas susceptible to sinkholes. The modular units are designed for quick assembly and disassembly, allowing for efficient responses during emergencies. They create usable spaces in urban environments while maintaining structural safety.

Geographical Context

The design takes inspiration from karst landscapes, known for their soluble rock that can result in sinkholes. Specific regions, such as Florida, Mexico, and parts of China, are particularly noted for their geological conditions that require thoughtful architectural approaches. The project responds to the heightened risk of urban development in these areas, offering tailored solutions to enhance resilience.

Community Resilience

Including community-oriented features, the design incorporates bunkers that can serve as safe spaces during natural disasters. These bunkers are strategically located to provide immediate shelter for individuals in affected areas, ensuring security when it matters most. Additionally, underground storage solutions are proposed to make essential resources like food accessible during emergencies.

Integration of Geothermal Energy

The design also explores the potential connection between sinkholes and geothermal activity, suggesting that future developments might make use of natural energy sources. By bringing together architectural strategies with geological phenomena, the approach emphasizes both structural safety and sustainability.

The overall arrangement of the modular elements highlights efficient use of space while adhering to structural requirements, presenting a design that prioritizes function and safety in unpredictable environments.

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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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