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Ceramic Brick Façade and Olive Garden Landscape Enhance Sustainable Family Living

Authors:
Valentina Fesenko, Anna Nakhshkaryan, Marina Politova
Ceramic Brick Façade and Olive Garden Landscape Enhance Sustainable Family Living

Project in-detail

With a façade of meticulously arranged ceramic bricks and an expansive olive garden that provides both beauty and sustainability, the residence redefines family living by seamlessly integrating indoor comfort with outdoor serenity.
5 key facts about this project
01
The façade features a unique arrangement of ceramic bricks, enhancing both aesthetics and thermal performance.
02
An integrated olive garden provides a source of food while fostering a connection to the landscape.
03
Open courtyards are strategically placed to maximize natural light and promote outdoor living.
04
The use of local lime mortar complements the ceramic bricks for improved durability and sustainability.
05
Private spaces are designed to maintain intimacy while still being connected to communal areas.
The Olive Garden residence is a thoughtfully conceived architectural project that skillfully merges modern design principles with a deep respect for natural landscapes. Nestled in a rural context, the project operates as both a sanctuary and a functional living space, focusing on creating a harmonious relationship between architecture and its environment. The design encapsulates an invitation for occupants to connect with nature while emphasizing the importance of communal living and personal retreats.

At its core, the Olive Garden residence represents an innovative approach to residential architecture, reflecting contemporary needs while honoring traditional values. The overall function of the project extends beyond mere shelter, aiming to foster a sense of community among its inhabitants. Key to this function is the open floor plan that encourages fluidity and social interaction throughout various spaces. This layout features communal areas like a kitchen and dining room, designed to facilitate shared experiences, while private spaces are strategically placed to offer personal retreat when needed.

Every aspect of the Olive Garden residence has been meticulously planned to ensure that it serves its intended function of promoting well-being and social cohesion. The entrance is oriented to the south, maximizing natural light throughout the day and creating a warm welcome. Upon entering, one is immediately drawn into an experience that prioritizes warmth and connection. The spatial organization flows seamlessly, with each room carefully situated to optimize views and access to outdoor spaces.

The materials selected for the project further enhance its connection to the environment. Features such as ceramic bricks, treated with local lime mortar and complemented by oak wood for windows and doors, showcase a commitment to sustainability and regional craftsmanship. Glass blocks provide visual interest and allow natural light to permeate interior spaces, fostering an inviting ambiance. The choice of compressed sand and gravel for flooring also speaks to durability and thermal performance, enhancing occupant comfort throughout the seasons.

Unique design approaches characterize the Olive Garden residence, further distinguishing it from more conventional residential designs. Open courtyards serve as pivotal elements, providing essential natural light while also acting as functional gardens where inhabitants can cultivate plants and enjoy serene outdoor moments. These spaces reflect the project’s philosophy of integrating landscape with architecture and allow for a deeper engagement with nature.

Additionally, the inclusion of green roof terraces underscores the emphasis on sustainability while creating multifunctional outdoor gathering spaces. These terraces are designed for relaxation and socialization, offering occupants a valuable resource for enjoying the natural surroundings. Such spaces are enhanced by integrated shade solutions that promote comfort during peak temperatures, showcasing a commitment to energy efficiency while ensuring outdoor areas remain inviting.

Landscaping within the project has been executed with a strong ecological focus, featuring an array of native plants that bolster biodiversity and reinforce the identity of the location. The olive garden element interwoven throughout the design not only provides visual appeal but also allows occupants to experience agricultural yields while reinforcing a connection to the earth.

The Olive Garden residence serves as an exemplary model of contemporary architectural practice, balancing the demands of modern living with a respectful nod to the surrounding landscape. By prioritizing open, communal spaces alongside private retreats, the project fosters an environment where residents can thrive emotionally and socially. Those interested in further exploring how the architectural plans, sections, and designs manifest these innovative ideas are encouraged to delve into the presentation of the project for a closer look. This exploration will reveal the thought processes and architectural concepts that define the Olive Garden residence and unveil deeper insights into its thoughtful and pragmatic design.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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