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Sustainable Community Living Enhanced by Green Roofs and Rendered Concrete Finishes

Author:
Dean Kirby
Sustainable Community Living Enhanced by Green Roofs and Rendered Concrete Finishes

Project in-detail

Incorporating rendered concrete finishes and sustainable green roofs, this residential design fosters community interaction while prioritizing accessibility and environmental sensitivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a living green roof system to enhance biodiversity.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance.
03
Features large timber louvres for optimal natural ventilation.
04
Integrates sustainable drainage solutions to manage runoff effectively.
05
Emphasizes accessibility with wide corridors and ramped access.

## Analytical Report on Casa da Tranquilidade - House of Tranquility

### Project Overview

Casa da Tranquilidade is located in Baixa da Luz, Portugal, an area known for its rich cultural heritage. The design draws on traditional architectural elements prevalent in nearby towns, such as Barão de São João and Loulé, with the objective of creating a nurturing environment that harmonizes modern design with regional aesthetics.

### Architectural Inspiration

The project pays tribute to the Algarve region's historical context, incorporating features like high ceilings, expansive windows, and intricate arches. These elements foster a strong connection to local architectural traditions, while simultaneously enhancing the living experience. The design embodies local identity, balancing comfort and visual appeal to create meaningful spaces.

### Design Elements

#### Spatial Organization and Accessibility

The residence features a multi-layered arrangement that prioritizes functionality and accessibility. Ground-floor communal areas encourage social interaction, while private accommodations are strategically elevated to enhance privacy. Ramps and wide corridors facilitate ease of movement, supporting an active lifestyle. Communal gardens are integrated to provide shared spaces for residents, promoting community engagement and connection.

#### Materiality and Sustainability

The use of sustainable materials is central to the design of Casa da Tranquilidade, ensuring structural integrity while fostering environmental dialogue. Key materials include rendered cement board for thermal insulation, a timber frame for structural flexibility, and pink rendered concrete for a modern aesthetic. Timber louvers enhance natural ventilation and light, while the green roof system contributes to biodiversity and insulation. The implementation of sustainable drainage systems and energy-efficient features, such as solar panels, further emphasizes the project's long-term viability and minimal environmental impact.

The architectural design strategically integrates natural elements, facilitating connections to the surrounding landscape. Thoughtful landscaping outside and planters within living spaces enhance the residents’ experience and evoke a sense of tranquility, aligning with the overarching goal of creating a serene living environment.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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