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Vertical Garden Integrated With Recycled Glass and Anodized Aluminum in A Compact Eco-Friendly Dwelling

Author:
Marco Coletti
Vertical Garden Integrated With Recycled Glass and Anodized Aluminum in A Compact Eco-Friendly Dwelling

Project in-detail

An eco-friendly dwelling constructed with recycled glass and anodized aluminum showcases a vertical garden system that enhances biodiversity while providing sustainable living solutions in a compact footprint.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with recycled glass for energy efficiency and light optimization.
02
Incorporates anodized aluminum for a lightweight yet durable structural framework.
03
Features a vertical garden that enhances biodiversity and improves air quality.
04
Employs thermal insulation with recycled textiles for sustainable indoor climate control.
05
Utilizes a winter garden as a multifunctional buffer zone for seasonal adaptability.

### Overview

Located in a UNESCO heritage site, the Season House is a prototype dwelling designed to address modern housing needs while promoting a sustainable lifestyle. The 25-square-meter residence is conceived as a versatile structure that fosters a harmonious relationship with the surrounding mountainous landscape. By reimagining shelter, the design emphasizes emotional well-being and connectivity to nature, reflecting a commitment to both innovation and environmental stewardship.

### Adaptive Spatial Configuration

The architecture embodies a philosophy of flexibility, structured into three principal components: a compact living space, a greenhouse that adjusts according to seasonal conditions, and a winter garden that serves as a transitional buffer. The ground floor integrates essential functions—kitchen, living, and workspace—within a carefully organized layout that promotes efficiency. A mezzanine adds verticality, enhancing interaction among occupants while optimizing spatial dynamics.

### Material and Environmental Considerations

The building employs a selection of materials aimed at sustainability and functionality. Recycled glass and anodized aluminum contribute to energy efficiency, while galvanized steel ensures structural durability. The use of recycled textile panels for insulation supports a sustainable lifecycle, and natural plaster made from hemp enhances indoor air quality. Outdoor features, such as rainwater harvesting systems and native landscaping, further illustrate the design's ecological focus. Birdhouses and beehives integrated into the environment promote biodiversity, highlighting the project's commitment to fostering a thriving ecosystem.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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