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Repurposed Bottles and Natural Materials Create a Sustainable Living Space

Repurposed Bottles and Natural Materials Create a Sustainable Living Space
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Utilizing repurposed soda bottles and recycled construction debris, the design embodies a modular approach to sustainable living that addresses urban housing needs through community engagement and resourcefulness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes repurposed soda bottles as structural insulation.
02
Incorporates local construction debris into design elements.
03
Features a modular assembly for easy adaptability.
04
Employs eco-friendly adhesives for structural integrity.
05
Encourages community participation in the construction process.

## Project Overview

"THIS IS NOT GARBAGE" is a housing initiative focused on redefining construction methodologies through the innovative use of waste materials. Designed as a "Do It Yourself" walls house, it addresses pressing concerns regarding urban waste generated by traditional construction activities. The intent is to create sustainable housing solutions that foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among residents toward waste management and resource utilization.

## Material Reclamation and Use

The project employs a diverse array of materials typically classified as waste, including urban debris, plastics, and recycled construction components. Key elements of construction include soda bottle boxes for structural integrity and insulation, while recycled construction debris integrates past materials into new builds. The use of eco-friendly adhesives replaces traditional mortar, minimizing environmental impact and visual clutter. Additional materials such as woods, cardboard, and biodegradable coatings support durability and aesthetics while promoting interior comfort through improved insulation.

## Spatial Design and Modularity

Covering an area of 25 m², the design embodies a minimalist approach characterized by functionality and adaptability. Modular construction allows for flexibility in layout, enabling future modifications or expansions based on occupants' needs. Aesthetic considerations focus on organic lines and open spaces, which enhance natural light and ventilation within the structure. The design not only prioritizes livability but also encourages community involvement through its do-it-yourself framework, effectively transforming waste into valuable resources.

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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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