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Copper-Clad Living Space Emphasizing Radiant Heating and Natural Light Integration

Copper-Clad Living Space Emphasizing Radiant Heating and Natural Light Integration
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Constructed with a copper facade and incorporating radiant heating for energy efficiency, this micro home seamlessly integrates function and modern design for urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a durable copper facade that evolves aesthetically over time.
02
Equipped with radiant heating and cooling panels for energy-efficient climate control.
03
Features a 4.5-meter-high window that enhances natural light and outdoor connectivity.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural support and sustainability.
05
Includes modular furniture that adapts to various living scenarios.

### Overview
The Copper House, located in a dense urban environment, is designed to address the housing needs of young professional couples seeking affordability without compromising on essential living standards. With a compact footprint of approximately 25 square meters, the project optimizes functionality and encourages a dual lifestyle that balances social interaction with privacy. The architectural approach integrates environmental considerations, making it suitable for urban settings where space is limited.

### Spatial Configuration and Functionality
The spatial organization of the Copper House has been carefully crafted to maximize efficiency and usability. The floor plan delineates distinct functional areas, including a bedroom, living area, and kitchen, while facilitating adaptable uses.

- **Bedroom:** Measuring 2660 mm by 4000 mm, the bedroom is sited for privacy and features a large 4.5-meter window that enhances natural light penetration and contributes to the overall ambiance. The addition of sliding doors allows this space to be closed off, creating a tranquil environment.
- **Living Area:** Serving as a multifunctional zone, the living space incorporates a modular table that can be adjusted for various activities, from entertaining to remote work.

The kitchen, designed for efficiency, connects directly to an outdoor deck via sliding glass doors, fostering fluid transitions between indoor and outdoor living.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The choice of materials in the Copper House reflects a commitment to sustainability and performance. The construction employs a wooden frame made from sustainably sourced lumber, ensuring minimal environmental impact.

- **Insulation and Cladding:** KingSpan QuadCore panels comprise the outer walls, providing high thermal efficiency while remaining user-friendly. The façade is wrapped in copper, a durable material known for its attractive aging process, which enhances the building's character over time.
- **Climate Control Systems:** Radiant heating and cooling panels maintain comfortable indoor temperatures with lower energy consumption. Additionally, strategically placed solar panels generate electricity and support water heating, contributing to energy self-sufficiency.

The Copper House also implements water conservation techniques by capturing rainwater for reuse, thereby reinforcing its sustainable approach in an urban context.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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