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Elevated Terrestrial Living with Solar Panels and Natural Light

Authors:
Kevin Garza leal, Diego israel Garza solano, Alejandro Arias zorrilla, Francisco Sigala altamirano
Elevated Terrestrial Living with Solar Panels and Natural Light

Project in-detail

With its spiral configuration and strategic use of natural light from distinct openings, the design creates a harmonious living space that enhances both private and communal experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Spherical form adapts to the surrounding landscape.
02
Two distinct openings optimize natural light and ventilation.
03
Spiral layout integrates public and private zones seamlessly.
04
Incorporates solar panels for sustainable energy use.
05
Water management systems enhance resource efficiency.

Hemisferic Nest House is a residential building designed to blend with its natural environment. The project is characterized by a spherical form that adapts to the needs of its residents. It emphasizes the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces while allowing for various social interactions. The thoughtful placement of the structure enhances its functions and creates a sense of harmony within the landscape.

Conceptual Framework

The design starts with the idea of a perfect sphere, which influences the entire layout of the house. Two key openings are present in the structure. The main entry point welcomes residents and guests, establishing a sense of hierarchy. The second opening, positioned higher in the volume, allows natural light to flow into the interior. This light enhances the living spaces, creating a connection to a terrace that invites outdoor engagement.

Spatial Organization

The house is arranged into three levels that spiral around each other, creating distinct private and public areas. On the first level, the kitchen and common areas encourage interaction. Moving up to the second level, residents find private spaces for rest and relaxation. The third level is designed as a flexible area, suitable for observation or other activities. This organization promotes movement throughout, balancing personal time with social gatherings.

Environmental Considerations

Attention to environmental factors is evident in the design. The building responds to elements like sunlight, wind, and rain through carefully planned features. Solar panels provide renewable energy, while water filters and storage systems support sustainable living. These elements are not just functional; they contribute to a lifestyle that respects the surrounding ecosystem.

Design Details

Visual representations of the design highlight how spaces are organized and interact with one another. The layout prioritizes natural light and airflow, creating a comfortable atmosphere throughout the home. Each area serves a specific purpose while remaining interconnected. The careful arrangement of spaces reflects a clear focus on both daily living and personal contemplation, resulting in a well-rounded living environment.

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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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