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Adaptive Solar Glazing with Compacted Earth and Natural Stone for Sustainable Living

Author:
Yoann Jacques Georges Portrets
Adaptive Solar Glazing with Compacted Earth and Natural Stone for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

The integration of solar glazing with compacted earth and natural stone creates a self-sufficient residence that maximizes energy efficiency while harmonizing with its environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
The house incorporates adjustable solar glazing to optimize light and temperature control.
02
Compacted earth materials enhance thermal mass while providing a natural aesthetic.
03
Integrated water desalination technology addresses local freshwater limitations.
04
Private quarters are positioned for maximum privacy with panoramic views.
05
Open-plan areas seamlessly transition to outdoor spaces, enhancing connectivity with nature.

## Project Overview

Located in a context sensitive to both natural surroundings and contemporary living needs, the Dual Face House emphasizes sustainability, efficiency, and aesthetics. Its design features a double-faced structure that maximizes natural light while minimizing energy consumption. By combining expansive glazing on two orientations, the house fosters a direct relationship between interior spaces and the exterior environment, encouraging a lifestyle that harmonizes with nature while incorporating modern technologies.

### Environmental Adaptation

The architectural design prioritizes environmental responsiveness through several integrated systems. Solar panel glazing contributes to effective temperature regulation and energy generation, allowing the structure to function autonomously in terms of electricity. Additionally, the installation of a water desalination system addresses local freshwater scarcity, showcasing an understanding of prevalent ecological challenges in the region.

### Material Selection and Aesthetics

The materials for the Dual Face House were deliberately chosen for their sustainability and visual harmony. Compacted earth blocks serve as the primary structural element, providing both thermal mass and a natural aesthetic. Double-glazed windows enhance energy efficiency by minimizing heat loss, while solar panel glazing acts as a dual-purpose feature, providing shade and renewable energy. Interior finishes incorporate natural stones and minerals, ensuring durability while complementing the ambient surroundings. This thoughtful selection creates a balance between the building’s functionality and its visual appeal, underlining a commitment to ecological responsibility in design.

### Spatial Organization

The spatial layout is purposefully designed to enhance functionality and foster social interaction. The ground floor encompasses open-plan living and dining areas that connect seamlessly to outdoor spaces, facilitating gatherings and engagement with nature. Private quarters on the upper floor are situated to enhance privacy while allowing for expansive views through strategically placed windows and balconies. Special features such as adjustable solar panels enable occupants to customize light and temperature according to variable solar conditions, illustrating a progressive approach to residential architecture.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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