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Wave-Powered Homes Featuring Aluminum Composite Structures and Integrated Desalination Systems
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Harnessing wave energy through buoyant design, the floating community employs aluminum composite structures and integrated desalination systems to create a sustainable living environment on the water.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes wave energy generators for on-site electricity production.
02
Incorporates a desalination system for sustainable freshwater sourcing.
03
Features aluminum composite panels for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
04
Designed with flexible modular units adaptable to resident needs.
05
Includes communal spaces to foster social interaction among residents.

### Project Overview

The WaveFusion initiative proposes a sustainable approach to coastal living, set against the challenges of rising sea levels and increased urbanization in coastal environments. This project aims to create an adaptable, off-grid community that floats on water, utilizing wave energy to power its residences. The design not only addresses housing shortages but also seeks to foster a lifestyle in harmony with the aquatic surroundings.

### Architectural Form and Functionality

The design features a series of buoy-like units characterized by sculptural roofs that evoke marine life forms, creating an organic aesthetic that blends into the coastal landscape. Modular living spaces include communal areas, private units, and flexible outdoor terraces to promote social interaction. Interior configurations are adaptable, employing retractable furniture to support diverse activities and living styles, particularly targeting the needs of young professionals.

### Energy and Resource Management

WaveFusion incorporates a wave-energy generator that harnesses ocean motion for electricity generation, combined with a fresh water harvesting system to meet the community's resource needs. The design utilizes advanced materials such as QuadCore LEC insulated panels for thermal efficiency and Kingspan Slimline water tanks for potable water storage. Additionally, features like natural daylighting systems and a desalination process for water purification reflect a commitment to sustainability and resilience in a coastal context.

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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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