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Sustainable Living with Reclaimed Wood and Green Roof Techniques in Compact Design

Authors:
Michele Mazzaro, Eric James Maurer
Sustainable Living with Reclaimed Wood and Green Roof Techniques in Compact Design
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Constructed with reclaimed wood and topped with a green roof, this compact dwelling optimizes resources and sustainability while providing essential living space amid Venezuela's challenging economic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily with locally sourced reclaimed wood to minimize environmental impact.
02
Incorporates a green roof for rainwater harvesting and temperature regulation.
03
Utilizes flexible furnishings to maximize functionality in limited square footage.
04
Features an adaptable design that allows for self-build capabilities by local residents.
05
Employs natural ventilation strategies to enhance indoor comfort and reduce energy use.

The architectural project titled "25 m² Vision for Scarcity" addresses the socio-economic challenges faced in Venezuela by proposing an efficient living solution within a limited footprint of 25 square meters. This design focuses on resilience, sustainability, and adaptability, aiming to provide a functional living space that meets basic needs while integrating innovative architectural strategies. The project represents a response to scarcity, offering practical insights into housing solutions for communities in similar situations.

Unique Aspects of Design and Functionality

The "25 m² Vision for Scarcity" is distinguished by its commitment to environmental sustainability and resourcefulness. The project incorporates a combination of locally available materials, such as reclaimed wood, oak, corrugated fiber cement, and concrete, which align with traditional building practices in Venezuela. This choice not only reduces costs but also fosters community engagement in the construction process.

A flexible interior layout maximizes usability of limited space, featuring furnishings such as a Murphy bed, pull-down desk, and fold-away storage units that enhance multifunctionality. The design optimizes natural light through strategically placed windows, ensuring a livable environment without excessive reliance on electrical lighting. Furthermore, the incorporation of systems like a green roof for rainwater collection and solar panels for energy generation reinforces the project’s sustainability goals, providing autonomy in energy and water management.

Innovative Approaches to Sustainability

Sustainability is a key focus in the "25 m² Vision for Scarcity." The project integrates several systems aimed at promoting self-sufficiency. The green roof not only contributes to water management but also allows residents to cultivate gardens, connecting inhabitants to their environment. The photovoltaic array serves dual purposes by supplying electricity and enabling the structure to remain functional despite unreliable external power sources.

Additionally, the architecture employs a natural ventilation strategy that enhances thermal comfort while minimizing energy consumption. This approach underscores the project's overarching goal of resilience in housing, promoting a lifestyle that maximizes resource efficiency amidst economic constraints.

For those interested in exploring this project further, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide a comprehensive understanding of the innovative ideas that inform its execution. Understanding the architectural details of the "25 m² Vision for Scarcity" can offer valuable insights into effective housing solutions for contemporary challenges.

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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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