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Terraced Green Roofs Enhanced With Natural Stone and Timber Craftsmanship in Sustainable Living Spaces

Author:
Massimo Dei
Terraced Green Roofs Enhanced With Natural Stone and Timber Craftsmanship in Sustainable Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing terraced green roofs and local stone, the design fosters a sustainable living environment that seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced stone to blend with the natural environment.
02
Terraced green roofs designed to enhance biodiversity and insulation.
03
Open-plan living spaces maximized for natural light through large windows.
04
Use of charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetic appeal.
05
Community-focused layout promoting interaction through shared outdoor areas.
The Garden Terrace Village project represents a synthesis of contemporary architectural design and traditional Portuguese influences. Situated in a scenic landscape, the project emphasizes a strong connection with the environment while catering to the needs of residents. The primary function of Garden Terrace Village is to provide a cohesive living community that integrates various amenities for accommodation, dining, and wellness on a single site.

General Description
The design focuses on creating a seamless relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, encouraging interaction among residents while maintaining privacy. The layout consists of distinct zones, including accommodation units, a central restaurant, and wellness facilities, which are organized to enhance accessibility and social connectivity. Each residential unit is oriented to maximize natural light and views of the surrounding landscape, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and private terraces. The use of natural materials aligns with the project’s commitment to sustainability and aesthetic integrity.

Unique Design Approaches
One distinguishing feature of the Garden Terrace Village project is its integration of green roofs and terraced gardens, which mimic the existing topography of the site. This approach not only enhances the visual connection to nature but also promotes biodiversity and contributes to thermal efficiency. The outdoor spaces are designed as extensions of the indoor living areas, encouraging residents to engage with their environment.

Moreover, the project employs a strategy that defines public and private spaces clearly. Shared gardens and transitional zones serve as communal gathering areas, fostering a sense of community while allowing for personal seclusion. This balance is achieved through careful spatial organization and the thoughtful placement of landscaping elements.

Architectural Materiality and Construction
The material palette for Garden Terrace Village is carefully selected to align with both structural integrity and aesthetic value. Key materials include locally sourced wood for structural components, brick for exterior walls, terracotta roof tiles, and natural stone for significant architectural features. These materials contribute to the project's thermal performance while respecting traditional craftsmanship.

The design also prioritizes sustainable practices, incorporating passive heating and cooling systems and utilizing native plant species in landscaping to minimize maintenance and resource use. By leveraging local materials and traditional building techniques, Garden Terrace Village produces an authentic architectural response to its context without compromising modern living standards.

The Garden Terrace Village project exemplifies a harmonious integration of architecture with its natural surroundings, prioritizing community engagement and sustainability. For a comprehensive understanding of the project's architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation.
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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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