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Elliptical Structure with Living Walls Enhancing Natural Light in Sustainable Residential Design

Author:
Roberto Di Giacomo
Elliptical Structure with Living Walls Enhancing Natural Light in Sustainable Residential Design

Project in-detail

The integration of living walls and expansive glass panels within an elliptical concrete structure creates a dynamic environment that enhances natural light and fosters well-being in a sustainable residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Living walls are integrated throughout the interior to improve air quality and enhance aesthetic appeal.
02
The structure features an elliptical shape that optimizes airflow and natural light distribution.
03
Customizable environmental controls allow residents to adapt lighting and climate according to individual preferences.
04
Raw concrete forms the primary structure, creating a connection to the surrounding natural landscape.
05
Underground ventilation systems minimize energy usage while maintaining comfortable interior conditions.

## Overview
The HSIGN House of the Future is located within a conducive environment that embodies a blend of architecture, technology, and wellness. Designed to function as a dynamic living space, the house prioritizes holistic living while responding to the changing needs of its inhabitants. The architectural philosophy reflects a commitment to integrating principles of bioarchitecture and systems informed by quantum physics, aiming for a design that aligns physical and psychological well-being with the natural surroundings.

## Spatial Strategy
The architectural form features an elliptical outline, enhancing airflow and promoting an aesthetic dialogue with the landscape. The interior is organized around a central atrium, incorporating large, open spaces that facilitate natural light infiltration and social interaction, while still maintaining privacy. Common areas offer multifunctional utility, promoting fluid transitions among the kitchen, dining, relaxation, and study areas. The design emphasizes a sense of community through an open-plan layout, whilst personal spaces are strategically placed to foster individual privacy.

## Materiality and Technological Integration
The material palette consists primarily of raw concrete, which provides structural resilience and blends with the environment, complemented by wooden accents that introduce warmth. Large glass panels enhance transparency, creating visual connections with the outdoors while allowing ample natural light. The design also incorporates living walls and planters, promoting biophilic design principles.

Technological systems within the HSIGN House monitor and optimize factors such as air quality, temperature, and lighting to enhance comfort and sustainability. Customizable environments, supported by artificial intelligence, adapt to individual preferences and habits, fostering a personalized living experience. Sustainable design techniques, including underground ventilation systems, aid in energy efficiency and minimize reliance on artificial climate control.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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