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Coated Glass Facades and Vertical Battens Define a Sustainable Home in California

Authors:
Huda Yaghmour, Fatma Elzahraa Hassan, Ranim Alsaleh
Coated Glass Facades and Vertical Battens Define a Sustainable Home in California

Project in-detail

Featuring a façade of coated glass and strategic vertical battens, this California residence emphasizes energy efficiency through thoughtful material selection and layout while providing a comfortable living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Coated glass façades enhance natural light and visual connection to the landscape.
02
Vertical battens provide solar shading while adding architectural interest.
03
Reinforced concrete structural elements ensure durability and longevity.
04
Grey water recycling system minimizes water footprint and promotes sustainability.
05
Open floor plan fosters flexible living spaces for contemporary lifestyles.
The House of the Future is an architectural project designed to integrate sustainable living with modern aesthetics. Situated in a location that emphasizes both functionality and interaction with the environment, this project demonstrates how contemporary design can respond to ecological challenges while providing a comfortable living space. The design features a clear demarcation between private and communal areas, optimized for both energy efficiency and social interaction.

Spatial configuration encompasses two levels: the ground floor dedicated to social spaces—living room, open kitchen, and dining area—and the first floor reserved for private quarters including multiple bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms. This zoning allows seamless transitions between public and private interactions. The use of large glass façades enhances natural light and fosters a connection with the surrounding landscape, creating an immersive living experience.

Unique Design Approaches and Features

The House of the Future places significant focus on integrating sustainable practices into its architecture. The project employs volumetric massing and minimalist geometry to create an engaging aesthetic while addressing functional needs. Its extensive use of glazing is augmented by shading elements—vertical battens—that filter sunlight, improving thermal comfort within the structure.

Material selection is key to the project’s sustainability. It utilizes reinforced concrete for structural integrity, coated glass panels for energy efficiency, and white stone cladding to create textural variety. These materials not only contribute to the overall durability of the house but also align with modern design trends, resulting in a cohesive visual identity.

Environmental considerations are paramount, with features designed to optimize resource use: solar panels harness renewable energy, while grey water recycling systems minimize water consumption. This integration reflects a commitment to sustainable architecture, demonstrating an understanding of the need for ecological responsibility in modern design.

Spatial Flow and Architectural Details

The architectural layout maximizes the performance of interior spaces through careful attention to circulation and natural light. High ceilings in common areas create a sense of openness, while the use of stairs as design elements contributes to the aesthetic flow of the home. Architectural sections illustrate how interior spaces interact, providing insights into effective spatial organization. The structural design emphasizes a balance between mass and void, creating an environment conducive to both relaxation and social engagement.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of this architectural project, exploring the architectural plans and sections will provide valuable insights into the innovative design elements and spatial relationships that define the House of the Future. Investigating these details will showcase the thoughtful integration of architecture and sustainability in modern design.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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