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Bioclimatic Greenhouse With Integrated Solar Systems And Cross-Laminated Timber Structure

Author:
Gilles-antoine Camille Marie Jacques Dervieu
Bioclimatic Greenhouse With Integrated Solar Systems And Cross-Laminated Timber Structure

Project in-detail

Constructed with cross-laminated timber and integrated solar technology, the design incorporates a bioclimatic greenhouse to maximize energy efficiency while serving as a contemporary family residence.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
02
Features charred wooden shingles that enhance durability and weather resistance.
03
Incorporates a bioclimatic greenhouse to support year-round food production.
04
Utilizes passive heating and cooling strategies through a solar chimney system.
05
Designed with terraced landscaping to promote ecological integration and biodiversity.

### Overview

Located in a coastal setting, the project emphasizes a contemporary residential design that prioritizes sustainability and a harmonious relationship with the surrounding environment. By adapting traditional architectural forms to accommodate modern family life, the design aims to balance comfort with ecological responsibility. The structure is organized across multiple levels, fostering both indoor and outdoor living experiences, with an emphasis on light, openness, and accessibility.

### Spatial Organization

**Zoning and Functional Layout**: The project features a thoughtful zoning strategy that delineates private and communal spaces within the residence. The private wing consists of bedrooms, a service room, and a lounge area, ensuring privacy and comfort. In contrast, common areas, including the kitchen, living room, and reception spaces, are designed to enhance social interactions. Key architectural features, such as a solar chimney and a bioclimatic greenhouse, complement functionality while promoting an engaging spatial experience.

**Integration with Nature**: Each section of the home is designed to connect with the outdoors, facilitated by terraces, sliding screens, and an infinity pool that extends living spaces into the landscape. Landscaped terraces enhance the aesthetic quality of the dwelling while contributing positively to its ecological footprint.

### Material Selection

**Sustainable Construction Materials**: The project employs a range of materials that reflect a commitment to both sustainability and modern design principles. Structural elements include durable concrete, extensive glass for maximizing natural light, and steel for enhancing structural integrity.

**Innovative Technologies**: Incorporating advanced green technologies, the project features solar panels for renewable energy generation and hydropanels for water collection. These innovations support a resource-efficient living environment. Additionally, the bioclimatic greenhouse not only promotes sustainable food cultivation but also integrates agricultural practices into the residential setting.

**Natural Finishes**: The use of natural stone in outdoor areas contributes to a serene atmosphere, while wooden elements in terraces and accents provide warmth and support biophilic design principles.

### Design Characteristics

**Energy Efficiency Strategies**: Dedicated systems such as the Canadian Well and solar chimney facilitate natural heating and cooling, supporting a framework of energy efficiency inherent to the design. Passive design strategies optimize thermal comfort throughout the year.

**Water Management Solutions**: The incorporation of rainwater collection and recycling strategies emphasizes efficient water management, positioning the residence as a model of sustainability.

**Community and Aesthetic Integration**: The design language blends modern elements with traditional motifs, resulting in a visually compelling structure that responds to its context. The open layout promotes social interactions, reinforcing connections within the home and with the surrounding landscape.

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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
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