BACKGROUND
From the beginning of 2025 to December 2025, Vietnam suffered 17 consecutive storms, leaving 22 out of 34 provinces submerged in floodwaters. When natural disasters are no longer seasonal cycles but permanent threats, the question of how to protect people without forcing them to leave their ancestral lands urged Architect Bui The Long and his colleagues to find an answer. From there, the Floating Prefab House model was born – a dedicated project by CTA | Creative Architects, Nha Xanh, and 5G Construction Solutions.
CONCEPT
The project is implemented under the concept of "Seasonally Adaptive Architecture", providing optimal versatility:
Normal State:
The structure functions as a garden bungalow or a weekend retreat, anchored gently and in harmony with the landscape.
Flood Response State: When the flood arrives, the structure automatically detaches from the ground and floats according to the water level (thanks to a buoy/floating tank system). This structure becomes a "safe haven" and an autonomous shelter for parents.
SOLUTIONS
Form: An isosceles triangle shape, balanced with a low center of gravity to resist overturning from the wind.
Materials: 5G lightweight materials providing sound insulation, thermal insulation, and buoyancy.
Floating Solution: A system of sealed HDPE plastic drums acting as pontoons with high impact resistance.
Anti-Roof Lifting Solution: A cohesive geometric form without overhanging eaves to prevent the roof from being lifted by strong winds.
Unit Price: 200-250 million VND (approximately $10,000 USD),
FLOOD SEASON SAFETY FACTORS Food: Dry Storage & Backup Kitchen. Moisture-proof storage compartments for 7-10 days; an independent mini gas stove for cooking without electricity.
Sleep: Comfortable beds for 2 people, which can accommodate 4 in emergencies. In crowded cases, floor mats can be used to sleep up to 8 people, with storage for spare blankets.
Sanitation: A septic tank that floats with the structure, ensuring that hygiene and the environment are not affected during floods.
Electricity: 1. Equipped with two solar panels to maximize energy harvesting from the limited sunlight on stormy days. This energy charges backup power units, ensuring a steady supply for the most essential devices.
Water: A 220L clean water storage tank.
The project is a testament to the architectural approach of CTA | Creative Architects, Nha Xanh, and 5G Construction Solutions. It is not only an innovative technical solution using new materials but also provides a "safe haven"—a flexible shelter amidst volatility. Architecture serves as a spiritual anchor, giving people peace of mind to overcome adversity right within their own home grounds.
(As this is an emergency housing solution for flood-prone rural areas with a limited budget, the interior is only shown through floor plans and diagrams. We did not design specific furniture or interior details for this particular project
Photo: CTA )
