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Plastic Waste Insulation and Modular Design in Sustainable Community Housing

Authors:
Thuthukani Florestal, Stanley J Parker Dubuisson, Michedarlie Louis, Nicole Samica Boursiquot
Plastic Waste Insulation and Modular Design in Sustainable Community Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing recycled plastic waste insulation and local palm wood, this sustainable housing solution embodies modular design principles to create efficient living spaces that resonate with the cultural identity of its Haitian context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes recycled plastic waste as insulation material.
02
Incorporates local palm wood for structural elements.
03
Features a compact footprint of 25 square meters.
04
Designed to facilitate rainwater harvesting for water efficiency.
05
Adaptable interior spaces allow for multifunctional use.

The Kréyòl Habitat project exemplifies a thoughtful approach to architectural design, focused on sustainability, cultural representation, and community engagement. Located in Haiti, this initiative addresses urgent housing needs while incorporating inventive methods to utilize local materials, particularly recycled plastic waste. The project is defined by its compact footprint of 25 square meters, aiming to optimize space and functionality through modular design principles.

Design and Functionality The Kréyòl Habitat serves multiple functions. It features adaptable living spaces that can transition between areas for work, dining, and leisure. The interior layout promotes efficiency without compromising comfort, catering to the varied lifestyles of its inhabitants. Key elements include flexible furniture solutions that allow for easy modifications of the space. This flexible approach to design is particularly relevant in the context of Haiti, where the ability to use space effectively is essential for quality living.

Material Choices and Sustainability A distinguishing aspect of the Kréyòl Habitat is its commitment to sustainability through innovative material use. The primary materials include plywood and palm wood, selected for their availability and structural properties. The incorporation of plastic waste insulation is particularly notable; it addresses pressing environmental concerns while providing thermal efficiency. The project integrates solar panels for energy generation and a rainwater harvesting system for water management, thereby supporting off-grid living.

The sustainable approach adopted in the Kréyòl Habitat promotes ecological awareness within the community, as it utilizes local resources to minimize ecological impact. This innovative use of materials and systems exemplifies how architecture can respond to environmental challenges effectively.

Cultural Context and Community Engagement Reflecting Haitaian culture, the Kréyòl Habitat embodies a sense of identity that resonates with local traditions. The design fosters community interactions, allowing for shared spaces that encourage social engagement. By creating an architectural form that reflects cultural heritage, the project aims to strengthen local identity while providing functional living solutions.

Moreover, the Kréyòl Habitat's replicable design model promotes widespread adoption of sustainable practices. As this initiative encourages local craftsmanship and resource management, it contributes to a broader discourse on sustainable architectural solutions in developing regions.

For those looking to dive deeper, further exploration of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs of the Kréyòl Habitat will provide valuable insights into its innovative approaches and technical resolutions. Understanding these elements enhances appreciation for how architecture can integrate community values with sustainable practices.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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