Site Area: 15,687 m2
Gross Floor Area of one unit : 24.75 m2
Location: Applicable everywhere in the world
[Design Description]
Modern society faces the challenges of climate change and energy shortages. Particularly after the pandemic, there has been a trend where some people are leaving cities to move to rural areas for reasons such as the increase in remote work and the desire to reduce living costs. Against this backdrop, we propose an innovative housing design inspired by nature. This design aims for energy self-sufficiency and food self-sufficiency, focusing on the creation of an eco-village. Buds symbolize growth and regeneration. Using this concept, the houses are designed to blend harmoniously with nature while conveying an eco-friendly image. The bud-shaped houses feature curved structures that are aerodynamically efficient, maximizing natural ventilation and daylight. These design elements reduce energy consumption and provide a comfortable living environment.
The energy self-sufficiency system incorporates microalgae-based power generation and biogas technology. Using the entire external surface, a microalgae system generates electricity through photosynthesis. Microalgae require relatively little space and can be used as a sustainable energy source. This system meets the electricity needs of the house while absorbing carbon dioxide, improving air quality. Additionally, the microalgae system provides eco-friendly benefits by recycling water and nutrients. This allows for the reuse of wastewater within the house, reducing water consumption. Human waste and organic waste are utilized to produce biogas, which is used for heating and cooking in the house. This technology converts waste into a resource, reducing environmental pollution and cutting energy costs. The biogas system also produces compost, which can be used in agriculture, enhancing the productivity of the small farm in front of the house.
The houses are not intended to exist in isolation but rather form clusters to create an eco-village. The eco-village offers several advantages: it promotes social interactions among residents and fosters a sense of community. Various social activities and events are held in communal spaces, strengthening bonds among residents. The shared management of energy and resources enhances efficiency and cooperation. The eco-village aims to minimize environmental impact and pursue sustainable development. The design of the houses and farms aims to preserve the ecosystem and protect local natural resources. Through collaboration with the local community, the eco-village strives for social integration and environmental protection. Residents practice sustainable living to preserve the local ecosystem, and these efforts have a positive impact on the wider community.
During the pandemic, many city dwellers experienced mental stress, and living in nature offers the potential for mental healing. Moving away from the congestion and stress of the city to a natural environment can provide psychological relief. The eco-village offers significant advantages in this regard. Living in nature helps reduce stress and increase mental stability. Growing vegetables in the garden and living in tune with natural rhythms can enhance mental healing and well-being. Community life in the eco-village helps reduce social isolation and maintain mental health through mutual support and communication. Residents share their experiences and work together towards common goals, forming strong bonds.
The site chosen for this housing and eco-village project is an agricultural region (basically applicable everywhere in the world), making it suitable for developing an eco-village. By maximizing the potential of this area to develop houses and farms, we can promote integration with existing residents and foster sustainable lifestyles. Collaboration with local residents helps achieve social integration and enhances the sustainability of the eco-village. Active communication and cooperation with the local community promote mutual benefits and growth as part of the community. This contributes to the stability and sustainability of the eco-village.
The bud-shaped self-sufficient housing design is an innovative approach to addressing climate change and energy shortages. By combining nature-inspired design with advanced technology, it achieves self-sufficiency in energy and food, aiming for a sustainable future through the formation of eco-villages. This housing design presents a new paradigm for sustainable architecture and opens new possibilities for future living environments. It goes beyond mere architectural innovation, fundamentally changing our way of life. The self-sufficient systems of the houses and villages reduce resource waste, minimize environmental pollution, and enable sustainable development. Additionally, by strengthening social interactions and a sense of community, it enhances residents’ quality of life and plays a crucial role in creating a better society. This innovative housing design and the creation of eco-villages provide new directions for future architecture and urban planning. Through this, we can effectively respond to climate change and energy issues and pave the way for a sustainable future. Furthermore, living in nature, away from the city, significantly contributes to mental healing and well-being.
Designed by KIM MIN JAE