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Triple-Pane Windows and Indoor Gardens in Energy-Efficient Community Living

Authors:
Ariadne Kaperonis-bountris, Kateryna Gerasymova, Mehek Rahman
Triple-Pane Windows and Indoor Gardens in Energy-Efficient Community Living

Project in-detail

Incorporating triple-pane windows and indoor gardens, the design creates a community living environment that emphasizes energy efficiency and sustainable materials, offering residents a harmonious blend of private and shared spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes triple-pane windows for enhanced thermal performance.
02
Features indoor gardens that improve air quality and aesthetics.
03
Incorporates wooden overhangs for effective solar shading.
04
Employs polysocyanurate insulation for superior energy efficiency.
05
Includes a rooftop garden serving as a communal recreational space.
This architectural design project addresses the challenges of modern urban living by integrating sustainable practices and community-focused concepts within its layout and functionality. The design maximizes the use of space while ensuring that residents can engage with both private and communal environments. It features a combination of residential units, expandable common areas, and landscaped spaces that promote social interaction, an essential component of urban living.

The configuration of the project consists of various apartment types, strategically designed to accommodate different family sizes and lifestyles. This flexibility is a core strength of the architecture, as it allows for adaptability to the changing needs of residents. Private living spaces are smartly isolated from the hustle of communal areas, ensuring privacy while still encouraging community interaction through shared facilities.

Sustainable Architecture and Materiality

This project exemplifies sustainable architecture through the choice of materials and design strategies that reduce environmental impact. The use of concrete slabs provides structural support while maintaining thermal mass, promoting energy efficiency. Polyurethane and polysocyanurate boards enhance insulation, further lowering energy consumption.

Triple-pane windows are incorporated for superior thermal performance, providing significant reductions in energy usage for heating and cooling. Additionally, the design includes wooden overhangs that function as shading devices, protecting indoor spaces from excessive heat while seamlessly integrating outdoor and indoor environments.

Unique Design Approaches

Among the distinguishing features of this project are its interior and rooftop gardens. The inclusion of greenery inside living spaces enhances residents' connection to nature, providing mental health benefits and promoting biodiversity. The rooftop garden functions as a communal space where residents can relax, gather, and engage with neighbors, contributing positively to community cohesion.

The architectural layout employs passive design strategies to maximize natural light and encourage airflow throughout the building. Window placements are intentional, optimizing light penetration and reducing the need for artificial lighting during daytime. This approach not only benefits residents' well-being but also reinforces the project's commitment to energy efficiency.

Spacial Organization and Connectivity

The spatial organization is carefully crafted to facilitate movement and accessibility. Public areas are distinct yet easily reachable, ensuring that shared amenities can be utilized effectively. This clear separation of public and private spaces enhances residents' experiences by providing quiet areas for retreat while promoting social interactions in communal zones.

The integration of unique architectural elements, such as the adaptive floor plans and landscaped areas, fosters a sense of place, encouraging residents to engage with their surroundings actively. The layout reflects a balanced approach toward density, allowing for efficient land use without compromising livability.

Detailed architectural plans and sections provide further insights into the integration of these design elements, offering a comprehensive understanding of the project's architecture. Readers are encouraged to explore these architectural plans, sections, and designs to appreciate the thoughtful details and innovative ideas embedded in this project.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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