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Passive House with Bio Block Masonry and Efficient Thermal Performance

Passive House with Bio Block Masonry and Efficient Thermal Performance
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Crafted with bio block masonry and equipped with a central multifunctional core, this passive house exemplifies efficient living by integrating sustainable materials and advanced thermal performance for urban or vacation settings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from bio block masonry, the design minimizes carbon footprint while enhancing thermal mass.
02
The central multifunctional core optimizes space, combining kitchen and bathroom facilities for efficient living.
03
Floor-to-ceiling windows ensure ample natural light and cross-ventilation throughout the interior.
04
Insulated membrane-lined gutters are integrated into the design to promote effective water management.
05
Foldable furniture elements provide adaptability, maximizing utility in the compact living space.

## Project Overview

Located in urban backyards and adaptable to varied vacation contexts such as mountainous or desert environments, the Core Prototype House combines minimalist design with functionality and environmental responsiveness. This passive house prototype aims to embody sustainable living principles while offering flexibility for diverse geographical applications.

### Spatial Organization

The spatial strategy revolves around a central core, defined by two intersecting rectangles at an obtuse angle, which segments the interior into four functional areas: sleeping, working, cooking, and leisure. The design facilitates a flow of spaces, enhancing user experience and optimizing spatial utility. With a footprint measuring 25 square meters (5m x 5m), the organization promotes efficient use of space. The central core integrates essential utilities including kitchen and restroom facilities, while strategically placed windows on the southern and northern elevations ensure optimal natural light penetration and cross-ventilation. The hipped roof design further enhances airflow, contributing to a comfortable living environment.

### Material Selection

Materials have been meticulously chosen for their thermal efficiency, durability, and ecological impact. Key elements include Kingspan Quadcore LEC Insulated Wall Panels for structural integrity and insulation, Bio Block Masonry Units known for their low carbon footprint, and plywood substrates that maintain structural stability while contributing to a minimalist aesthetic. The use of double-glazed, high-performance windows enhances energy conservation, and flexible PVC water pipes support the plumbing system. Additionally, insulated membrane-lined gutters facilitate effective drainage, minimizing potential water-related issues.

### Sustainable Features

This design incorporates several passive energy strategies that leverage natural resources for heating and cooling. The house features a rainwater collection system and strategic shading to reduce heat gain in warmer months. Thoughtfully designed foldable furniture optimizes the limited space, allowing for multifunctional usage. The architectural focus on air-tightness and continuous thermal protection minimizes thermal bridging, while the structure’s engineering maximizes passive heating and cooling effects based on ambient weather conditions, reducing reliance on mechanical systems. The combination of these elements exemplifies a commitment to sustainable living and resource management.

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Enter an open architecture
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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