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Harnessing Helical Turbines and Solar Power in a Sustainable Urban Framework

Authors:
Justin Eckhardt, Terence Hallinan, Siyanie Christopher-brewley
Harnessing Helical Turbines and Solar Power in a Sustainable Urban Framework

Project in-detail

Over 400 helical turbines and a network of solar panels drive a clean energy solution in a compact urban community that seamlessly integrates residential spaces with pedestrian-friendly pathways and green areas.
5 key facts about this project
01
Over 400 helical turbines generate energy tailored to local wind conditions.
02
An extensive network of pedestrian pathways enhances community connectivity.
03
A daylit river provides ecological and recreational benefits within the urban setting.
04
Jack rabbit turbines power dedicated park areas, exemplifying energy self-sufficiency.
05
Mixed-use buildings integrate educational, residential, and commercial spaces for diverse functionality.

Project Helix aims to create a sustainable urban landscape powered by clean energy. Situated in an area with good airflow, the design includes various building types, such as educational institutions, mixed-use spaces, and residences. The main goal is to generate enough energy for the site and the neighboring communities, establishing a practical example for future developments.

Design Integration

The layout of Project Helix is carefully oriented along the direction of prevailing winds. This maximizes the effectiveness of over 400 helical turbines scattered throughout the site. By positioning buildings to take advantage of natural airflow, the design not only enhances energy collection but also supports the diverse functions within the community, ranging from education to living spaces.



Transportation and Mobility

Pedestrian movement is a key focus in the plan. The site features an extensive network of pedestrian pathways connected by a main street equipped with an electric trolley system. This design prioritizes green transportation options, encouraging people to walk or cycle. The intention is to foster community interaction and engagement, creating a vibrant public realm that enhances accessibility for everyone.



Natural Features

A daylit river runs through the project, accompanied by walkways that enrich the visual and functional aspects of the environment. This natural element serves as a recreational space for the community and acts as an important visual feature. Additionally, the park areas are powered by jack rabbit turbines, further supporting the initiative for self-sustainability in energy use.



Energy Strategy

The energy framework incorporates solar panels, helical turbines, and water jack rabbits, working together to produce clean energy on-site. This combination showcases a thoughtful approach to achieving energy independence. The organization of these components highlights not only a commitment to renewable energy but also a practical consideration for ecological design principles.



The overall design fosters green spaces and encourages walking, creating a setting where alternative energy systems work alongside urban life. This careful planning results in an environment that reflects a balance between ecological sensitivity and practical function.

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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

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
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