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Perforated Clay Masonry and Local Timber Create a Harmonious Retreat in Natural Surroundings

Author:
Áron Kovács
Perforated Clay Masonry and Local Timber Create a Harmonious Retreat in Natural Surroundings

Project in-detail

Employing perforated clay masonry and locally sourced timber, the design fosters a seamless connection with nature, providing a sustainable and inviting home for family interactions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced clay masonry to enhance thermal performance and energy efficiency.
02
Features perforated walls that allow for natural ventilation and light diffusion.
03
Employs a bent A-frame design to create dynamic interior spaces that connect with the landscape.
04
Integrates outdoor patios from each bedroom to facilitate easy access to nature.
05
Prioritizes native plant landscaping to support local biodiversity and ecological health.
Casa Verde is a thoughtfully designed architectural project that seeks to establish a seamless connection between the built environment and the natural landscape. This residential design embraces principles of sustainability and functionality while prioritizing the inhabitants' experience. The architecture of Casa Verde is characterized by a linear configuration, allowing for a harmonious interplay of indoor and outdoor spaces. Its orientation and layout are strategically chosen to optimize views and natural light, thus enhancing the overall user experience.

The project represents a commitment to ecological sensitivity through the integration of sustainable materials and construction practices. The design utilizes local resources, particularly for the exterior walls, which are made of perforated clay masonry. This choice not only contributes to the aesthetic character of the building but also aids in ventilation and daylight management. This consideration for climate responsiveness underscores Casa Verde's alignment with modern sustainable design principles.

Functionally, Casa Verde serves as a family home that encourages both social interaction and privacy. The layout includes public spaces such as an open-concept kitchen and dining area that promote communal gatherings. These spaces are intentionally designed to create fluidity and openness, bridging the interior with the generous outdoor areas. Private spaces, including bedrooms, are strategically located to afford occupants privacy while maintaining access to nature. Each bedroom features direct access to outdoor patios, reinforcing the connection with the surrounding landscape and providing residents with personal retreats.

An important aspect of the design is the roof structure, which utilizes locally sourced clay tiles. This roofing strategy not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes to the thermal efficiency of the home. The gentle slopes of the roof facilitate water runoff and contribute to passive cooling, aligning with the project's sustainability goals. The thoughtful use of natural materials continues within the interior, where finishes such as plaster and wood are incorporated to create inviting and warm spaces.

The landscape design surrounding Casa Verde is as integral to the project as the architecture itself. Native plantings and outdoor areas are carefully curated to support local biodiversity, fostering a connection between the home and its ecosystem. The pathways through the garden are designed to align with the natural contours of the land, encouraging exploration and interaction with nature. This attention to landscaping not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the property but also contributes to the overall ecological health of the area.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout Casa Verde, particularly in its emphasis on sustainability and locality. By prioritizing the use of locally sourced materials and integrating passive design strategies, the project exemplifies a modern approach to residential architecture that is both respectful and responsive to its environment. The incorporation of perforated walls serves a dual purpose: they create a visually engaging façade while also promoting energy efficiency through natural ventilation.

Casa Verde exemplifies how contemporary architecture can harmoniously coexist with its surrounding environment, providing a living space that enriches the inhabitants' daily experiences while respecting ecological considerations. For those interested in exploring architectural designs and concepts that resonate with modern sustainability, examining the architectural plans, sections, and design elements of Casa Verde will provide valuable insights into this remarkable project. Engaging with these materials will enhance understanding of the innovative ideas that shape this design, highlighting the interplay of functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic appeal within contemporary architecture.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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