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Circular Layout With Geothermal Systems And Wood-Centric Design For Wellness Residences

Authors:
Christian Legrand Tidwell, Amin Shafaeian, Jeffrey Alan Lane, Mustafa Sufian Hamed
Circular Layout With Geothermal Systems And Wood-Centric Design For Wellness Residences

Project in-detail

With a circular layout and the integration of geothermal systems, the design prioritizes natural light and communal spaces to create a supportive environment for individuals facing terminal illnesses and their families.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular layout promotes seamless navigation and community interaction.
02
Geothermal systems provide sustainable heating and cooling throughout the facility.
03
Vertical gardens enhance aesthetics and improve air quality within communal spaces.
04
Permeable pavement mitigates water runoff while maintaining accessibility.
05
Pet care area recognizes the importance of animal companionship for emotional support.

**Overview**

Located in the Appalachian region, the project is designed to provide a supportive environment for individuals facing terminal illnesses and their families. The design aims to foster a sense of community and tranquility through spatial arrangements that reflect the natural cycles of life and death. It seeks to create a space that not only accommodates physical needs but also addresses emotional well-being through meaningful interactions and reflections.

**Spatial Strategy and Community Interaction**

The layout features a circular arrangement that symbolizes continuity and encourages connection among residents and their families. Guest units are designed as both private accommodations and communal spaces for gatherings. Key facilities include a chapel for spiritual reflection, a courtyard for outdoor engagement, and an indoor dining hall that promotes shared meals and social activities. The integration of pet care facilities acknowledges the comfort that animals provide, creating a more holistic environment.

**Materiality and Sustainability Initiatives**

Sustainability is a fundamental aspect of the design, with careful material selection to enhance both environmental harmony and user comfort. Key materials include wood for warmth and aesthetics, glass for natural light diffusion, and permeable pavement to manage rainwater effectively. Green roofs are incorporated to support biodiversity and energy efficiency. Sustainable systems are also integrated, including active solar collection, geothermal heating and cooling, and rainwater harvesting, demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship while ensuring the comfort of residents.

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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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