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Residential home featuring olive wood and passive solar design for integrated living

Author:
Geoffrey Van troost
Residential home featuring olive wood and passive solar design for integrated living

Project in-detail

This residential home skillfully combines olive wood and passive solar principles to create a thoughtfully designed space that fosters community interaction while harmonizing with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The design incorporates locally sourced olive wood, enriching the project's connection to the regional heritage and sustainability.
02
A slatted façade system serves not only for aesthetics but also provides adaptive shading, optimizing energy efficiency throughout the year.
03
The home's layout emphasizes communal interaction, featuring flexible spaces designed for gatherings while maintaining individual privacy.
04
Innovative cross-ventilation strategies include strategically placed operable windows and sliding doors that enhance airflow without mechanical assistance.
05
Native plant landscaping surrounds the property, promoting biodiversity and creating seamless integration with the local ecosystem.
The architecture of the Olive House represents a thoughtful integration of contemporary design with traditional influences, showcasing a deep respect for local culture and environmental sustainability. This project is characterized by its functional and aesthetic elements, fulfilling the dual role of a family residence and a community hub, blending private and communal living in a cohesive manner. The design embodies principles of passive solar architecture, allowing the inhabitants to enjoy natural light and ventilation while minimizing reliance on mechanical systems.

At its core, the Olive House is intended to facilitate a comfortable living environment that enhances the quality of life for its occupants. The project is laid out with distinct zones, separating private spaces from shared areas without compromising the sense of community. The strategic orientation and layout provide a logical flow through the house, encouraging interaction in communal zones such as the living room and kitchen while offering sanctuary in personal spaces such as the bedrooms.

The architectural design emphasizes harmony with its surroundings, utilizing a selection of sustainable materials that highlight local heritage. Noteworthy materials include olive wood for both structural and decorative elements, reflecting the region's cultural identity. Additionally, elements like double-pane low-emissivity glazing contribute to the building’s thermal efficiency, reducing energy consumption while maintaining comfort. The careful choice of wood and stone for the façades not only enhances durability but also roots the structure firmly within its environment, creating an inviting façade that resonates with natural beauty.

One unique aspect of this project is its approach to natural ventilation. The design incorporates multiple cross-ventilation pathways, alongside strategically placed operable windows and sliding doors, promoting airflow that reduces the need for artificial air conditioning. This attention to cross-ventilation not only improves indoor air quality but also fosters a connection between interior spaces and the outdoors, which is a crucial element of Mediterranean architecture.

Another significant feature is the façade treatment, which utilizes slatted designs that provide shading and privacy without compromising light entry. This design approach results in a dynamic interaction between the building and its environment, allowing light to play across the surfaces throughout the day. The relationship established between built form and nature is further enhanced with carefully curated landscaping that promotes local biodiversity and creates tranquil outdoor living spaces.

The Olive House serves as a noteworthy example of how modern architectural ideas can embrace traditional values while prioritizing sustainability. The thoughtful integration of passive design principles not only enhances the residence's energy efficiency but also creates a space that encourages residents to engage with their environment, both inside and outside the home.

For those interested in exploring the architectural plans, sections, and overall design elements further, the project presentation offers an in-depth look at the innovative ideas driving this thoughtful design. Discover the finer details and intricate connections that shape this project, enriching one's understanding of sustainable architecture and community-centric living.
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Enter an open architecture
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Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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Chair
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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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