Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Translucent Facades and Sustainable Timber Create A Water-Conserving Residence in Southern Spain

Author:
Neel Virendra Patel
Translucent Facades and Sustainable Timber Create A Water-Conserving Residence in Southern Spain

Project in-detail

Combining translucent facades with sustainable timber and innovative water management systems, the design redefines eco-friendly living in southern Spain, serving as a resilient residential space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Translucent facades enhance natural light while supporting passive ventilation.
02
Innovative water catchment systems integrate with the landscape to promote ecosystem health.
03
Sustainable timber construction is combined with recycled materials for environmental impact reduction.
04
The bent A-frame design offers structural stability while minimizing heat gain.
05
Multifunctional spaces adapt seamlessly to various resident needs throughout the year.
The architectural project titled "The Passive Protest" is situated in southern Spain and aims to address significant environmental challenges, particularly those associated with climate change. The primary function of this structure is to create a sustainable living environment that minimizes greenhouse gas emissions through intelligent design and material selection. The building interacts harmoniously with its surroundings, embodying architectural practices that respond to local climate conditions while advocating for ecological stewardship.

The design features an elevated platform that promotes airflow underneath, enhancing cooling through natural ventilation. The flexible facades, made from translucent fabrics, allow occupants to control light and air while maintaining privacy. Solar panels are incorporated into the design to collect renewable energy, contributing to the project's off-grid capabilities. This feature reduces reliance on external energy sources, ensuring a self-sufficient living experience.

Unique to this project is its effective integration of water management systems that utilize local hydrology. Water catchment features, such as bunds, support both functional and ecological requirements, promoting sustainability while facilitating habitat creation for local wildlife. The configuration of the spaces is adaptive, with multifunctional areas that can accommodate various activities, thus enhancing the building's utility.

Additionally, the use of sustainable materials is pivotal to the project's design philosophy. The selection includes sustainable timber for structural elements, polycarbonate sheeting for its weather-resistant properties, and insulated panels for energy efficiency. The focus on recycled materials reflects a commitment to reducing environmental impact and fostering an eco-friendly architectural practice.

The combination of these elements positions "The Passive Protest" as a model for environmentally responsible architecture. Its design not only meets the immediate needs of its occupants but also provides an educational platform for environmental awareness and sustainable practices.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas behind "The Passive Protest," interested readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation in detail. This will provide deeper insights into the innovative features and sustainable strategies that define this architectural undertaking.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy