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Heat Recovery Systems and Solar Panels Enhance Sustainable Living in Natural Environments

Authors:
Krista Lauska, Zane Korola, Laura Gleizde
Heat Recovery Systems and Solar Panels Enhance Sustainable Living in Natural Environments

Project in-detail

Utilizing heat recovery systems and solar panels, the design creates an energy-efficient environment that promotes sustainability while providing versatile living spaces within a natural setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Heat recovery ventilation systems achieve over 85% efficiency.
02
Energy entirely sourced from solar panels and heat pumps.
03
Design incorporates multiple hut types for varied group sizes.
04
Wooden trail enhances connectivity to the natural landscape.
05
Meditation space designed for reflection and tranquility.

The design incorporates a focus on sustainability, applying Passive House principles to enhance the relationship between built spaces and the natural environment. Located within a landscape that values interaction and reflection, the layout consists of various components designed for different functions, including both communal and private areas. The arrangement encourages users to engage with their surroundings, providing spaces for socializing and moments of solitude.

Building Components

A variety of building components are featured in the layout, including a multifunctional space, terrace, wooden trail, and different types of huts for various group sizes. These accommodations range from single huts to multiple-person options, along with a designated meditation area. This thoughtful configuration allows for movement between spaces while emphasizing the importance of being in tune with nature.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency plays a crucial role in the design. A careful approach has been taken to minimize energy demand through effective insulation and ventilation. Specific heating demand metrics highlight this strategy, with figures such as 10 kWh/(m²a) for single huts and 18 kWh/(m²a) for the multifunctional space. The focus on these numbers reflects a strong understanding of thermal dynamics and local climate conditions.

Renewable Energy Integration

Renewable energy sources are incorporated to support the project’s operational needs. Solar photovoltaic panels and heat pumps are used to provide energy, reducing reliance on external resources. The ventilation system is designed to recover at least 85% of heat, ensuring that the interiors remain comfortable while keeping energy consumption low. This integration of green technology highlights a commitment to sustainable practices.

Construction Principles

Principles guiding construction are evident throughout the design. There is a strong emphasis on high-quality thermal insulation, with measures in place to prevent thermal bridging and energy loss. Controlled ventilation systems are essential for maintaining good air quality and comfort within the spaces. These choices reflect a comprehensive approach to design, focusing on performance while respecting the natural environment.

A key detail in the design is the wooden trail, which promotes exploration and interaction with the landscape. It invites users to experience the natural beauty surrounding the site, reinforcing the connection to the environment and enhancing the overall experience of the space.

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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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