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Translucent ETFE Bubbles Integrated with Reinforced Concrete in Adaptive Urban Housing Solutions

Authors:
Salam Yousef, Maryem Lachgar
Translucent ETFE Bubbles Integrated with Reinforced Concrete in Adaptive Urban Housing Solutions

Project in-detail

Crafted from durable ETFE bubbles and a robust concrete core, this adaptive housing solution elevates modular living in urban environments while promoting community interaction and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes inflatable ETFE bubbles for lightweight, energy-efficient living spaces.
02
Incorporates a central reinforced concrete core for structural stability.
03
Features modular design allowing reconfiguration based on user needs.
04
Promotes sustainability with integrated water preservation systems.
05
Encourages community interaction through shared communal living areas.
The 360º Inflatable Parasite is a modern architectural project situating itself in the urban landscape of Milan, Italy. This design seeks to provide adaptable living solutions within crowded urban settings, emphasizing a practical approach to space usage and functionality. The project integrates a central structural core with modular inflatable living units, creating an innovative response to contemporary housing demands.

The main structure consists of a robust cylindrical concrete core that supports surrounding inflatable bubbles, allowing for flexibility and versatility. Each bubble serves as a separate living space, promoting an efficient use of available urban land. The core acts as a stable anchor, facilitating safe support for these inflatable units while maintaining a cohesive architectural form.

Innovative Adaptation to Urban Living

One of the distinctive features of the 360º Inflatable Parasite is its use of inflatable technology combined with a strong concrete core. This approach is notable in the field of architecture as it permits a lightweight and adaptable configuration, which contrasts with traditional static building designs. The design fosters an environment where individual units can adapt to various user needs while enabling interconnectivity among residents.

Additionally, the integration of sustainable materials, such as ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) for the inflatable components and recycled wood for surrounding structural elements, underscores a commitment to environmental responsibility. This choice of materials not only ensures functionality but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the design, allowing natural light to filter through, uniting interior spaces with the exterior landscape. The project is designed with communal spaces that encourage social interactions, aligning itself with modern urban living practices.

Functionality and Structure

Functionally, the 360º Inflatable Parasite provides innovative living quarters that blend seamlessly into the fabric of city life. The individual bubbles are designed not only for privacy but also to optimize views of the surrounding area, enhancing the living experience while maintaining a sense of community. The proposal includes features that facilitate sustainability, such as a preserved water tank system integrated into the overall architecture. This attention to resource management enhances the potential for self-sufficiency within the urban context.

The design’s circular layout allows for a complete 360-degree engagement with urban life, ensuring that each unit benefits from natural light and ventilation. The decision to use a dynamic, modular structure opens pathways for various adaptations and potential reconfigurations based on the evolving needs of the city, making it a practical solution for increasing urban density.

In summary, the 360º Inflatable Parasite articulates a thoughtful approach to modern urban housing through its innovative use of materials and structural design. For those interested in understanding the detailed aspects of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and design elements, exploring the presentation of the 360º Inflatable Parasite will provide a deeper insight into its architectural significance.
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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
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