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Molded Shell Construction Featuring Recycled Boat Fiber for Sustainable Coastal Living

Authors:
Jackelin Aguilar, Mark Lichtenberger, Khadija Derouiche
Molded Shell Construction Featuring Recycled Boat Fiber for Sustainable Coastal Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with a molded shell of recycled boat fiber and designed to harmonize with its coastal environment, this microhome offers sustainable living solutions through innovative energy systems and integrated water management.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a molded shell constructed from recycled boat fiber, enhancing structural resilience and sustainability.
02
Features an operable roof deck that expands usable space and provides panoramic views.
03
Incorporates a hydrogen electrolyzer to generate energy from renewable sources onsite.
04
Designed with integrated rainwater harvesting systems to optimize water usage in a coastal setting.
05
Employs modular construction methods for efficient assembly and adaptability to varied environments.

### Concept Overview
Located in a coastal environment, The LightHouse addresses the pressing issues of rising sea levels and urban density through the design of a microhome that promotes sustainability and functionality. The structure aims to provide residents with a lifestyle that is both practical and reflective of its aquatic surroundings. It is conceived as an adaptable living space that fosters a connection between the occupants and the natural landscape.

### Spatial Organization
The LightHouse features a two-level layout designed to facilitate indoor and outdoor interactions effectively. The ground floor encompasses approximately 16.43 square meters and includes communal areas such as a kitchen, living space, and storage solutions. The design emphasizes versatility, allowing for social gatherings and functional use of space. The upper level comprises a private bedroom, measuring 8.29 square meters, which benefits from extensive glazing, offering expansive views of the surrounding water and landscape.

Key elements of the spatial layout include:
- **Kitchen and Living Area**: The kitchen is strategically designed to encourage communal cooking experiences, while the living area offers flexible seating arrangements conducive to gatherings.
- **Private Bedroom**: This upper-level space prioritizes comfort and tranquility, with operable deck features that enhance the user experience and enable unobstructed engagement with the views.

### Materiality and Environmental Considerations
The construction of The LightHouse employs materials selected for their sustainability and resilience in marine contexts. Notable materials include:
- **Molded Shells (Prefabricated Off-Site)**: This structural key component supports efficient transport and installation while ensuring stability in coastal conditions.
- **Recycled Boat Fiber Reinforced Plastic**: Utilized for durability, it incorporates recycled elements to minimize environmental impact.
- **Solar Panels (25 kW)**: Installed for energy production, these panels support a hydrogen electrolyzer that contributes to sustainable energy use.
- **Detachable Floating Modules**: Designed to accommodate variable user needs, these modules enhance the adaptability of the home.
- **Water Harvesting Systems**: Integrated technology for rainwater collection ensures responsible water management practices.

Through these materials, The LightHouse serves as a model for resource conservation and energy efficiency, fostering an environmentally conscious approach to living.

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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
competition now

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