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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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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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