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Underwater Living Spaces Crafted From UV-Stable Plastic With Integrated Rooftop Gardens

Author:
Milica Roycroft
Underwater Living Spaces Crafted From UV-Stable Plastic With Integrated Rooftop Gardens

Project in-detail

Elevated above aquatic environments, the modular units constructed from UV-stable plastic with integrated rooftop gardens provide sustainable living solutions tailored for underutilized urban spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units can be customized for one or two-bedroom configurations.
02
Rooftop gardens enhance biodiversity and provide local food sources.
03
Constructed from UV-stable plastic to withstand harsh environmental conditions.
04
Designed for integration into both urban spaces and aquatic environments.
05
Utilizes recycled materials throughout, emphasizing sustainability.

The M.U.D (Modular Underground/Underwater/Underdeveloped Dwelling) project represents an architectural approach focused on sustainable urban housing solutions. This design seeks to address the ongoing challenges of housing shortages by incorporating modularity and adaptability. The concept allows for prefabricated living units that can be easily deployed in various environments, including underutilized urban spaces and coastal areas.

The design emphasizes a compact living footprint while maximizing functionality. Each module is comprised of key components including walls, floors, and roofs, constructed from UV-stable plastic. These materials provide durability and resistance to environmental conditions. The integration of glass panels enhances natural light penetration, improving the overall livability of the units. Rooftop gardens offer residents green spaces that serve both aesthetic and practical functions, such as food production and habitat creation.

Innovative Modularity and Environmental Integration

What differentiates the M.U.D project from traditional housing developments is its modular design and potential for environmental integration. Each dwelling can be customized, accommodating different family sizes and lifestyles. This adaptability includes one-bedroom and two-bedroom options along with efficient living spaces that incorporate modern amenities.

The project also proposes the use of existing infrastructures, allowing for the installation of these modules into vacant buildings or sidelined urban areas. This practice encourages the revitalization of otherwise overlooked city spaces. Furthermore, the concept includes underwater modules for locations adjacent to bodies of water, presenting unique living arrangements that engage with aquatic environments while incorporating sustainable energy practices.

Sustainable Material Choices and Use of Resources

The M.U.D project incorporates recyclable materials throughout its construction, aligning with contemporary standards of sustainability. The choice of UV-stable plastic not only ensures longevity but also minimizes the carbon footprint typically associated with home building. Rooftop gardens create additional benefits by enhancing air quality and promoting biodiversity.

Additionally, the architectural design encourages residents to utilize the space effectively, with an emphasis on communal areas that foster interaction. The use of sustainable design strategies, like passive solar heating and natural ventilation, further supports the project's commitment to reducing energy consumption.

For those interested in exploring architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs related to M.U.D, the project presentation provides comprehensive insights. Review the specific architectural ideas implemented in this project to understand its practical applications and functional benefits in addressing the modern urban housing challenge.

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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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