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Submerged Habitat Crafted from Reinforced Concrete and Transparent Glass for Marine Observation

Submerged Habitat Crafted from Reinforced Concrete and Transparent Glass for Marine Observation

Project in-detail

Constructed with reinforced concrete and large glass panels, this submerged observatory enables visitors to engage directly with marine ecosystems while promoting education about aquatic biodiversity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed partially submerged to enhance underwater viewing experiences.
02
Utilizes large glass panels to maximize natural light and visibility of aquatic life.
03
Incorporates sustainable materials, including reinforced concrete and native landscaping.
04
Features a circular design that mimics natural marine forms for integration with the environment.
05
Educates visitors on local biodiversity and environmental conservation through interactive exhibits.

### Project Overview
"Now You Sea Me" is located on Hattusaari, an island in the Baltic Sea near Helsinki, Finland. Covering an area of 1,800 square meters, the structure functions as both an aquarium and an observatory, encouraging visitors to reflect on the relationship between humanity and marine ecosystems. This design addresses environmental challenges such as eutrophication and biodiversity loss, positioning architecture as a medium for enhancing awareness and understanding of ecological issues.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience
The design includes a partially submerged observatory that creates an immersive experience for visitors. The circular form of the building resembles marine organisms and promotes a sense of connectivity. Access is facilitated through a series of ramps that guide individuals from the shoreline to underwater viewing areas, symbolizing a journey of introspection and discovery. Large transparent panels enable clear views into the aquatic environment, effectively bridging the interior and exterior landscapes.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Structural integrity is primarily achieved through reinforced concrete, selected for its durability in marine settings. Extensive use of glass for viewing areas enhances transparency and allows natural light to illuminate underwater spaces, improving the visitor experience. Sustainable timber is incorporated for non-structural elements, underscoring a commitment to ecological principles. Additionally, a specialized marine coating protects the submerged components from degradation caused by marine organisms. The overall material strategy emphasizes longevity while aligning with environmental stewardship.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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