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Polycarbonate Roofs and Water Catchment Elevations in Compact Tropical Living

Authors:
Devlin Nathaniel Sebastian, Michael Kornelius
Polycarbonate Roofs and Water Catchment Elevations in Compact Tropical Living
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With a polycarbonate roof and elevated water catchment system, this compact residence offers sustainable living solutions tailored for young professionals in a tropical environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design enhances rainwater collection efficiency.
02
Roof structure accommodates solar panels for energy generation.
03
Polycarbonate material maximizes natural light while minimizing heat.
04
Flexible interior layout supports multifunctional living spaces.
05
Terrace integrates outdoor social interaction areas effectively.

The Gubug Banar is located in a tropical environment and serves as a modern and sustainable living space for young professional couples. The name translates from the ancient Indonesian language to mean a small but spacious home. This design aims to change the common view of traditional gubug housing, often associated with poverty, into a contemporary model that emphasizes efficiency and environmental care. The design combines different functional areas into a clear, cohesive form, achieving a balance between communal and private living.

Spatial Organization

The layout of Gubug Banar consists of several well-defined areas. On the ground floor, the design includes a terrace, living room, pantry or kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, relax room, and storage space. These areas are arranged thoughtfully to encourage social interaction but also maintain privacy. The placement of doors and pathways enhances the living experience while reflecting the demands of modern urban life.

Environmental Design

A key aspect of the design focuses on reducing its environmental impact. The building is elevated to create a water catchment area underneath, which effectively collects rainwater and minimizes disruption to the ground. The tilted roof is designed to hold solar panels, making it easier to gather energy in a tropical setting. These features support a commitment to sustainability, reducing the need for external energy sources and increasing self-sufficiency within the home.

Material Selection

For the roof, polycarbonate material is chosen. This option allows ample natural light to enter the house while helping to regulate temperature. The material is important for enhancing energy efficiency and comfort for the residents, aligning with the project’s goal of being environmentally responsible. The inclusion of rainwater collection systems further emphasizes resource management within the dwelling.

Interior Flexibility

Inside Gubug Banar, the design promotes flexibility and multifunctionality. Cabinets and staircases are crafted to maximize space, allowing different areas of the home to serve multiple purposes as the needs of the residents change. This thoughtful approach reflects the busy lifestyles of young professionals and strikes a balance between usability and visual appeal.

The design offers a range of views throughout the house. Residents can enjoy perspectives from the entrance, bedroom, and relax areas. These careful design decisions promote a connection between indoor spaces and nature, enriching the overall living experience and fostering a sense of harmony with the surrounding environment.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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