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Geothermal Building with Transparent Glass and Natural Stone Elements

Authors:
Tamas Merkel, Piros Rónai, Bence Soltész
Geothermal Building with Transparent Glass and Natural Stone Elements
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With a focus on geothermal technology and transparent glass, the design maximizes natural light while integrating natural stone to create a multifaceted community hub that supports diverse public activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
A multipurpose exhibition hall spans 388 m², accommodating diverse community events.
02
Geothermal heating and cooling systems minimize energy consumption and promote sustainability.
03
Transparent glass walls enhance natural lighting and foster connections with the outdoor environment.
04
Natural stone elements are integrated throughout, providing durability and a strong visual appeal.
05
The roof terrace offers a unique outdoor space for relaxation and social interaction in an urban setting.

The "Crater" project is located in a vibrant urban setting, designed to meet the needs of the community through its multifunctional spaces. It aims to create a welcoming environment for both public interaction and individual work. The layout emphasizes accessibility and sustainability. Key components, such as parking areas and solar panels, demonstrate a thoughtful approach to integrating energy efficiency into everyday life.

Site Features

The project includes important features like bus and car parking facilities, making it easy for people to reach the building. The solar panels reflect a commitment to renewable energy, aligning with modern principles of environmental responsibility. The arrangement of these elements shows careful consideration of how the site fits within its surroundings.

Spatial Organization

The layout is structured to support easy movement and a variety of activities. The basement contains an entrance, pathways for public and office circulation, a multipurpose exhibition hall, offices, a café with a kitchen, and an information center. This organization encourages diverse programming and invites community engagement, allowing different types of gatherings and events.

Materiality and Aesthetics

The construction relies on a reinforced concrete framework, ensuring strength and stability. Transparent glass walls are used to invite natural light into the spaces, enhancing the indoor atmosphere. The use of natural stone floors and ashlar provides a strong visual element. Simple white interior walls create a clean environment, allowing for flexibility in how spaces are used and decorated.

Technical Innovations

The building incorporates various technical systems aimed at sustainability. Geothermal heating and cooling, along with heat recovery ventilation, contribute to energy efficiency. Intelligent electric systems further reduce energy consumption. Coupled with solar panels, these installations enhance the building’s performance and reduce its impact on the environment.

A roof terrace adds another layer of functionality, providing outdoor space for relaxation and socializing, effectively connecting users with green areas within the urban landscape.

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MICROHOME 2026
MICROHOME 2026
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
The Next House: USA
The Next House: USA
20,000 USD Prize
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
100,000€ Prize / 2026

The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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