Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Geothermal Living Spaces with Recycled Concrete and Flexible Design Elements

Author:
Ralf Michael DÜbell
Geothermal Living Spaces with Recycled Concrete and Flexible Design Elements

Project in-detail

Incorporating recycled concrete and geothermal systems, the design emphasizes flexible living spaces that adapt to changing family needs while promoting community interaction in a sustainable environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Flexible living spaces allowing for dynamic reconfiguration over time Integration of geothermal beams for efficient climate control Use of recycled concrete to minimize environmental impact Incorporation of a central resource hub to promote community interaction Utilization of natural insulation materials for enhanced energy efficiency.

### Concept Overview
The "House of the Future" represents an innovative architectural initiative aimed at redefining residential living by incorporating principles of sustainability, adaptability, and advanced technology. Located in a desert or arid region, the design addresses essential modern challenges relating to water management and energy efficiency, creating a comprehensive approach to contemporary housing needs.

### Spatial Configuration and Flexibility
The architectural layout prioritizes both communal interaction and individual privacy by incorporating interlinked structures. A central resource hub enhances communication among residents while also facilitating resource-sharing. The ground floor features a rotunda designed as a gathering space, with flexible living areas that can expand or contract according to shifting family dynamics. The integration of prefabricated “Soft Flex Boxes” allows for adjustments in spatial configuration, reflecting a design philosophy that encourages evolution over time.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Sustainability is a core focus, with materials selected for their environmental impact and energy efficiency. The use of recycled concrete minimizes carbon emissions, while geothermal beams harness natural energy for heating and cooling. Photovoltaic panels support energy independence, and natural insulation materials contribute to overall energy efficiency. Outdoor features, such as a communal garden and efficient water management systems, further enhance the efficacy of the design, promoting a harmonious relationship between the built environment and its natural surroundings.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy