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Polycarbonate Greenhouse Porch with Sustainable Plywood Framing for Versatile Urban Living

Author:
Blake Hageman
Polycarbonate Greenhouse Porch with Sustainable Plywood Framing for Versatile Urban Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with transparent polycarbonate and sustainable plywood framing, this adaptable space merges indoor gardening capabilities with urban living, serving as a multifunctional retreat and workspace.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes transparent polycarbonate panels to maximize natural light while maintaining energy efficiency.
02
Features a multifunctional greenhouse porch designed for year-round indoor gardening.
03
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
04
Constructed with modular framing techniques for simplified assembly and sustainable material use.
05
Off-grid capabilities supported by a rooftop solar array for complete energy independence.
The Garden House project is an insightful approach to modern architecture, emphasizing the symbiosis between nature and living spaces. This design encapsulates the essence of sustainable living while catering to a variety of functions. Its versatility allows it to serve as a gardening hub, an urban retreat, or a remote workspace, showcasing the adaptability of contemporary architecture to meet diverse needs.

At its core, the Garden House represents a commitment to fostering a connection with the natural environment. It incorporates a greenhouse aesthetic, characterized by large expanses of glazing that invite an abundance of natural light into the structure. This feature not only enhances the visual appeal of the space but also reduces reliance on artificial lighting, promoting energy efficiency. The design encourages occupants to engage with their surroundings, making it a perfect example of how architecture can enhance the quality of life through thoughtful integration of nature.

The functional elements of the Garden House are carefully considered to support a range of activities. The prominent greenhouse porch, a central feature of the design, serves as an extension of the interior space, providing room for indoor gardening and plant care year-round. This multipurpose area blurs the lines between indoor and outdoor environments, allowing for a fluid transition that invites the outdoors in. The strategic placement of windows further enhances this connection, offering views of the surroundings while ensuring adequate ventilation.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the project, with the careful selection of sustainable resources contributing to the overall ecological ethos of the design. The use of concrete block provides essential structural integrity while dimensional lumber and plywood lead to versatile framing and finishing options. Recycled polycarbonate is employed for its lightweight properties, effectively creating a greenhouse effect without compromising structural performance. These materials together establish a harmonious blend of durability, functionality, and sustainability.

Incorporating high-performance systems further emphasizes the project's dedication to ecological stewardship. The Garden House is designed to operate off-grid, featuring solar panels that meet its energy requirements. This capability reflects a growing trend in architecture to prioritize renewable energy sources. Water conservation measures, including high-efficiency fixtures and rainwater collection systems, underline the project's commitment to responsible resource management, addressing the critical issue of water scarcity facing many communities today.

Unique design approaches in the Garden House extend beyond just materials and systems. The architecture emphasizes the psychological benefits of biophilic design, promoting mental well-being through exposure to natural elements. Research has shown that such environments can significantly reduce stress and enhance overall happiness. By making nature a focal point, the Garden House embodies a lifestyle choice that prioritizes both physical and mental health, aligning with modern values of wellness in architecture.

The modular nature of the Garden House also contributes to its accessibility. Designed to be constructed by two individuals with basic tools, the project minimizes labor and material costs, making it a practical solution for a wider audience. This approach aligns with contemporary challenges in housing affordability, encouraging a move toward more accessible and sustainable living arrangements.

In exploring the Garden House project, viewers are invited to engage with architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate the thoughtful strategies employed throughout the design process. Each element of the project has been meticulously planned to illustrate how architecture can function harmoniously within its environment. This project serves as a model for future architectural ideas focused on sustainability and community engagement. Individuals interested in understanding the complexity and elegance of this design are encouraged to delve into its presentation, where the intricacies of the Garden House can be explored in greater detail.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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