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Geothermal Efficiency with Green Roofs in Urban Living

Authors:
Arianna Rosina, Camilla Bonetti, Armand Florin Duia
Geothermal Efficiency with Green Roofs in Urban Living
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Incorporating geothermal probes and green roofs, the development promotes energy efficiency while offering adaptable residential spaces in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates geothermal probes for enhanced energy efficiency.
02
Features multifunctional winter gardens that expand living space.
03
Offers customization options, including colored windows for personalization.
04
Integrates green roofs to support local biodiversity and air quality.
05
Promotes direct ground floor access to improve accessibility for residents.

The New Alexandra Road Estate is a residential development located in Camden, London. It introduces a modern approach to urban living through its emphasis on flexibility and sustainability. The design is based on the concept of Microsurgery Architecture, which values efficiency and quality in its implementation. This approach aims to create living spaces that can adapt to the diverse needs of residents while connecting them with their environment.

Position Flexibility

A notable feature of the design is its focus on position flexibility. Block B offers direct access from the ground floor, enhancing ease of entry for all residents. This layout eliminates common barriers often found in traditional housing. It is designed to accommodate various living arrangements, allowing residents to adjust their spaces according to individual needs and preferences.

Indoor Flexibility

Indoor spaces are intentionally designed to be flexible as well. Multifunctional areas support changing requirements over time. For example, the winter garden acts as both an indoor garden and an extension of the living room. This design choice encourages interaction with nature, as well as providing additional living space when needed. The transition between indoor and outdoor areas promotes a fresh living environment.

Sustainable Energy Solutions

Sustainability is an important aspect of the estate’s overall design. Solar panels and geothermal probes are incorporated to enhance energy efficiency and minimize environmental impact. These systems work together to reduce the energy needed for daily living. Green roofs are also a key component, as they help improve air quality and support local wildlife.

Customization and Community Integration

Customization is a central theme in the design, with options available for residents to personalize their spaces. Colored windows, for instance, allow for individual expression and add variety to the facade. The project integrates well with the surrounding community by encouraging connections among residents. Greenery from the nearby park blends seamlessly with the estate, creating a harmonious relationship between the buildings and the landscape.

The New Alexandra Road Estate exemplifies a thoughtful design approach that prioritizes both functionality and environmental awareness. Each element is crafted to enhance daily living, creating spaces that are comfortable and responsive to the needs of their inhabitants.

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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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