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Geothermal Residence With Natural Stone Facade and Energy-Efficient Systems

Authors:
Geoffrey Charles Hess Vizcaino, JosÉ Manuel Herrera Barbales
Geothermal Residence With Natural Stone Facade and Energy-Efficient Systems

Project in-detail

Constructed with a natural stone facade and equipped with geothermal heating, this residence exemplifies energy efficiency while providing a flexible living space for its inhabitants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Natural stone facade enhances thermal mass for energy efficiency.
02
Integrated geothermal heating system reduces energy consumption.
03
Flexible layout allows for future modifications without major renovations.
04
Vertical gardens contribute to biodiversity and improve air quality.
05
Hybrid solar panels provide both energy generation and hot water.

## Project Overview
Located in a sun-drenched region, the House of the Future prioritizes sustainability, adaptability, and advanced technology in its design. The project integrates ecological design principles with contemporary needs, creating a residence that addresses both environmental factors and the changing dynamics of modern living.

## Spatial Strategy and Layout
The design employs a dual-layer architectural approach, distinguishing between a solid, permanent base and a more flexible upper volume. This configuration facilitates an evolving interaction between indoor and outdoor spaces while promoting accessibility across various house levels. The basement contains utility areas, including mechanical systems and storage, and is soundproofed for privacy. The ground level features communal spaces such as the living room, kitchen, and dining areas that connect seamlessly to outdoor elements, enhancing natural ventilation. Upper levels are dedicated to private rooms with adjoining bathrooms, ensuring personal comfort and expansive views.

## Materiality and Sustainability
The careful selection of materials contributes to both the aesthetic and ecological aspects of the house. Reinforced concrete serves as the main structural component, ensuring durability, while aluminum frames and glass panels maximize energy efficiency and natural illumination. Natural stone accents reflect local geological characteristics, and extruded polystyrene is utilized for effective insulation. Key sustainable features include hybrid solar panels for energy production, geothermal systems that leverage stable underground temperatures, and dedicated water management systems designed for efficient recycling and irrigation. Landscaping incorporates local plant species to reduce water consumption and improve air quality, further supporting the residence's commitment to sustainability.

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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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