Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Sustainable Living Spaces Crafted From Salvaged Wood and Mass-Timber Technology

Authors:
Will Oren, Ishan Rakshit
Sustainable Living Spaces Crafted From Salvaged Wood and Mass-Timber Technology

Project in-detail

Crafted using salvaged wood and advanced mass-timber technology, the project offers adaptable living spaces designed to support community resilience and self-sufficiency for displaced populations.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from salvaged wood, reducing waste in construction.
02
Features a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable resource management.
03
Utilizes collapsible walls to allow for flexible interior configurations.
04
Incorporates biogas systems for energy independence and waste conversion.
05
Designed as modular units, promoting adaptability for varying user needs.
The architectural project "Blooming Refuge" is a thoughtful response to the global challenges faced by displaced populations. It offers a modular, adaptable living solution designed to create supportive community environments for refugees. This project emphasizes sustainability, resource efficiency, and social connectivity, addressing the multifaceted needs of its users in a balanced architectural framework.

The design revolves around modular units called "Blooms," which offer a flexible spatial configuration that can easily change based on the time of day or community needs. Each unit is crafted to facilitate various functions, from housing to workspace for economic activities, encouraging self-sufficiency. The use of a minimal mass-timber construction allows for both structural efficiency and a reduced environmental impact, aligning with modern sustainable practices.

Sustainability is central to the project, which employs multiple innovative design approaches. Key materials such as Kingspan Pentaclad for insulation, salvaged wood for reducing waste, and pressure-treated curved glulam for structural stability demonstrate a commitment to environmentally responsible design. The incorporation of biogas systems enhances the project's energy independence, transforming organic waste into usable energy. A rainwater harvesting system further supports sustainable living practices by managing water resources effectively.

The focus on community engagement distinguishes Blooming Refuge from other projects aimed at temporary shelters for displaced individuals. The design promotes interaction and collaboration through communal spaces, where residents can gather, share resources, and foster relationships. This idea of creating a supportive social fabric is crucial in humanitarian architecture, offering more than just temporary shelter but facilitating belonging and emotional resilience.

The spatial layout within each Bloom unit includes adaptable living spaces that can be reconfigured based on user preferences. Collapsible walls allow for flexibility in space usage, ensuring that residents can customize their environment for security or openness as needed. The project balances practicality with community-focused design, encouraging positive interactions among inhabitants.

Exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs in Blooming Refuge will provide further insight into this project. The emphasis on adaptability, sustainability, and community engagement presents an architectural approach that is vital for addressing the needs of displaced populations. A review of the architectural ideas within this project will offer a comprehensive understanding of how it contributes to the ongoing dialogue in humanitarian architecture.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16,979 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy