The contest evaluates to what extent the proposals are socially, technically and economically inventive and novel, while remaining feasible. Teams place emphasis on innovative elements or systems used for the design, development, construction and management of the house projects
Decathletes must prove the affordable possibilities in the retrofitting of spaces that often had completely different previous functions. They offer cutting edge technical solutions that benefit the widest possible user groups with sensible implementation methods.
The ‘Architecture’ segment of the contest addresses new spatial and functional concepts on all scales (urban, building, living unit) and new articulations in the formal use of materials, textures and the appropriation of light. ‘Engineering’ involves the design and construction of the prototypes’ structure, systems (plumbing, electrical and photovoltaic) and acoustic performance. Innovation for ‘Energy efficiency’ is shown by the active and passive technological contributions that include perfectly functioning, liveable hydrothermal and illumination systems.
For larger scale innovative ‘Impacts on the neighbourhood’, holistic approaches demonstrate possible relationships among buildings and what key information is exchanged between them. The goal is a smart and sustainable city management with enhanced building performance and communities. ‘Sustainability’ further involves the industrialisation of the buildings and their adaptability for multifamily settings that can attract these housing typologies, thus favouring their commercialization. Novel ‘Communications’ initiatives disseminate bold messages for the responsible use of energy, natural resources, and sustainable construction for a wide audience.
Affordability and viability address not only economical, but technical, ecological and social aspects from a universal view. Teams define their plans’ economic impact, cost-effective strategies and decision making processes taking into consideration energy- saving and retrofitting (investments and payback, maintenance costs, economic impact of mobility). New ways of business planning and the promotion of the selected typologies, e.g. solutions for affordability, finances for renting and social housing, are crucial to reach the potential buyers.
The innovations are usually hidden within the structures and beautiful backgrounds of the Teams, yet, the flagship projects are integrated to the stories. Nevertheless, you are always welcome to further inquire about details, such as coupling of technologies, use of space or community-shaping ideas.
