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Energy-Neutral Residence Featuring Polygonal Photovoltaic Panels and Geothermal Systems

Author:
Merli Vaarmets
Energy-Neutral Residence Featuring Polygonal Photovoltaic Panels and Geothermal Systems

Project in-detail

Constructed with insulated wall panels and equipped with energy-generating photovoltaic windows, the design integrates renewable technology within a hexagonal footprint to create a self-sufficient living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Uses photovoltaic windows that generate energy while providing natural light.
02
Incorporates a hexagonal shape to optimize space and structural efficiency.
03
Features a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable water management.
04
Equipped with a geothermal heating solution to reduce energy consumption.
05
Constructed with insulated wall panels for enhanced thermal performance.

### Overview

The Off-Grid Journey project is situated in a mountainous region, emphasizing minimalistic living while prioritizing sustainability. It is designed for individuals or families seeking to reduce their environmental footprint through self-sufficient living arrangements. The architectural approach seeks to harmonize with the natural landscape, fostering a connection between residents and their environment.

### Structural Composition and Materiality

The project's design features a geometric, hexagonal structure that distinguishes it from traditional housing forms. Kingspan Cascade LLC insulated wall panels are utilized for both exterior and interior surfaces, enhancing thermal performance crucial for off-grid living. The façade incorporates a series of polygonal windows made from photovoltaic (PV) glass panels. These not only provide natural lighting but also generate energy, aligning with the project's sustainable ethos.

In support of its self-sufficiency objectives, the design integrates a geothermal heat pump for heating, alongside various renewable energy systems. Energy-generating elements include an 18 m² array of PV panels and a 4.5 m² wind turbine. A self-sufficient waste management system is incorporated, featuring a septic tank and underground storage, while a water-well and rainwater harvesting system ensure reliable access to potable water. The interior layout is intentionally minimal, with essential spaces designed for functionality and accessibility, maximizing space efficiency while promoting a tranquil 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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