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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.

## Overview

Located in the arid region of southern Spain, "The Passive Protest" [name omitted for clarity] seeks to address pressing environmental challenges by implementing innovative architectural strategies based on sustainable design principles. This project aims to create a resilient structure that both complements its surroundings and promotes ecological mindfulness. The concept of "passive protest" serves as a guiding theme, advocating for sustainable living practices through thoughtful architectural interventions.

### Spatial Synergy and Environmental Integration

The design focuses on integrating the building with its natural landscape, allowing for a harmonious relationship between architecture and local ecology. The structure's orientation and placement are strategically planned to enhance airflow and natural cooling, making use of local climatic conditions. Key features include evaporative cooling systems and thermal mass to regulate internal temperatures effectively, thereby minimizing reliance on mechanical systems. Additionally, the water management strategy incorporates water catchment systems and the creation of water bunds, supporting both immediate water needs and the restoration of local hydrology.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

A careful selection of materials underpins the commitment to sustainability. The use of sustainable timber provides structural integrity while adding warmth. Polycarbonate sheeting allows for diffused natural light while ensuring weather resistance, and insulated panels enhance thermal efficiency. Recycled materials are incorporated throughout the design, emphasizing ecological responsibility. These choices not only contribute to the building's aesthetic but also align with its overarching goals of energy efficiency and environmental stewardship.

The architectural features include an elevated platform for improved air circulation and adjustable facades made from translucent fabric to facilitate natural ventilation. The spatial layout is intentionally flexible, allowing communal areas to adapt to various functions and seasons, while private spaces encourage quiet reflection. This multifaceted design reflects an adaptive approach, emphasizing resilience and community engagement in the face of environmental challenges.

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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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