More than a dwelling, it is a study in regenerative living, an exploration of how architecture can give back to the land as much as it takes from it.
Awarded the 2025 Architizer A+ Award in the Unbuilt Sustainable Residential Project category, the house unites energy autonomy, bioclimatic design and low-impact construction, offering a forward-looking vision for inhabiting Mediterranean islands.
Partly embedded in the hillside, Horizon House allows the topography to shape both its form and its environmental performance. Stone excavated on site has been reused for structural walls and cladding, reinforcing a material bond with the land. Alongside stone, raw concrete, reclaimed timber and native vegetation compose an austere yet deeply rooted palette.
The house unfolds along a linear axis parallel to the horizon. Living areas open southwards to capture light and uninterrupted views, while the northern façade shields against prevailing winds, ensuring thermal comfort. An L-shaped pool not only extends the outdoor experience but also contributes to passive cooling and blends the residence seamlessly into its surroundings.

The guiding principle was clear: to create a building that is fully energy self-sufficient and ecologically integrated. Micro wind turbines harness the island’s constant breezes, while a geothermal system provides heating and cooling. Above, a 300-square-metre green roof collects and stores rainwater, complemented by a greywater recycling system. The landscape design, based on native species, enhances biodiversity, attracts pollinators and protects the soil against erosion, fostering long-term ecological balance.
Inside, simplicity prevails. The linear layout privileges natural light and views, while patios, verandas and terraces extend the living experience outdoors. The atmosphere relies less on decoration than on the raw beauty of materials themselves, allowing stone, wood and concrete to tell the story of place.

More than a residence, Horizon House proposes architecture as a living system — an ecological infrastructure that nurtures natural processes while providing a refined and resilient home. A quiet presence in the landscape, yet one that carries a powerful message for the future of sustainable architecture.