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Sustainable Living Enhanced by Large Glazing and Eco-Friendly Materials

Author:
Rodriguez Garces Apellidofamily Name
Sustainable Living Enhanced by Large Glazing and Eco-Friendly Materials

Project in-detail

Large glazing elements and a careful blend of concrete and aluminum create a modern family home that prioritizes sustainability while seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates extensive glazing to enhance natural light and views.
02
Features aluminum louvers for temperature and light control.
03
Includes a rainwater harvesting system for environmental sustainability.
04
Uses durable concrete for structural stability and longevity.
05
Offers adaptable spaces designed for future modifications based on needs.

### Project Overview

Located on a 15m x 30m plot with a total area of 400.27 square meters, the residential design aims to merge contemporary aesthetics with functional living spaces. The two-story structure prioritizes natural light, spatial fluidity, and an efficient layout, reflecting modern lifestyle needs. The design embodies minimalist principles while innovatively selecting materials, resulting in a refined yet practical dwelling.

### Spatial Strategy and Layout

The conceptual framework is centered on open spaces that encourage connectivity throughout the residence.

- **Ground Floor Configuration**: The ground floor includes a main entrance that leads to expansive living and dining areas, facilitating social interaction and allowing for adequate natural ventilation. Noteworthy features comprise a spacious living room that visually connects to an outdoor patio, multiple access points to storage and bathrooms for enhanced convenience, and a secondary entrance for improved accessibility.

- **First Floor Design**: Privacy considerations guide the layout of the first floor, which comprises several bedrooms, including a master suite with a walk-in closet and en-suite bathroom. Each room is designed to optimize natural light while maintaining privacy from adjacent properties. Versatile areas throughout the home are intended for future modifications to meet the changing needs of occupants.

### Materiality and Environmental Considerations

The selection of materials plays a crucial role in the home’s sustainability and visual appeal.

1. **Structural Components**:
- **Concrete** is used for foundational elements, ensuring strength, while **steel** enhances structural integrity and contributes to the modern aesthetic.

2. **Facade Elements**:
- **Glass** features prominently in large windows to maximize daylight and views of the surrounding environment, contributing to energy efficiency.
- **Aluminum Louvers** improve shading and ventilation, balancing natural light intake and thermal comfort.

3. **Interior Specifications**:
- **Marble Flooring** is utilized in high-traffic areas for its durability and aesthetic quality, while **large format porcelain** finishes bathroom walls, adding a sleek, contemporary touch.

4. **Sustainable Practices**:
- The project incorporates solar panels and a rainwater harvesting system, alongside organic waste biodigesters for gas needs, reflecting a commitment to sustainable living.

### Innovative Design Features

Key attributes of the design include strategies that enhance overall environmental performance and user experience:

- **Cross-Ventilation**: Optimally positioned windows and vents promote airflow, reducing the need for mechanical cooling systems and enhancing energy efficiency.

- **Landscape Integration**: The outdoor spaces, including patios and pool areas, extend the living environment while maintaining privacy through thoughtful landscaping, fostering interaction with the exterior setting.

- **Modern Minimalism**: The design's clean lines and open spaces, paired with integrated technology, create an appealing modern environment. The interplay of natural light and shadow enhances the aesthetic, ensuring visual interest during both day and night.

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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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