This funny looking structure, designed by Specht Harpman, is aims to not only have a host of green technologies, but also to be smarter than other homes. Rather than just throwing a few solar panels on a standard design, zeroHouse maximises it’s efficiency by controlling all aspects of energy management. The house is powered by solar energy, taken from the array of photovoltaic panels that span the roof and stored in an onboard battery. The clever control of power means that the house can operate for up to a week without any sunlight. Perfect for patchy winter months.

On top of this, the unit collects and stores rainwater and even processes it’s own waste - turning it into a clean, dry compost. Even with regular use, this system need only be emptied twice a year.

As mentioned before, the real advantage of this is the fact that it’s fully controllable and adaptable to the owners personal usage patterns. An interesting looking design and a thoroughly sensible answer to making a modern, adaptable living space environmentally friendly.

Click here for more information on the zeroHouse

With the architectural world seemingly leading the fight against climate change, here are two ingenious ideas of dealing with lowering our environmental impact.

The first is a simple and practical method of electricity generation, soon to be implemented in the Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth, UK. The structure is 170m high and towers over the harbour offering stunning views of the Solent and out over the Isle of Wight from it’s observation deck. Obviously the Spinnaker has quite a few steps.

The idea is to harness the energy created from the footfall the building receives by placing small “heel-strike” generators under the stairs. If this proves successful, the scheme will be used in London’s Victoria Station, where the 34,000 people using the stairs every hour will maintain around 6,500 lightbulbs… Nice.

The second idea is purely a concept at this moment, but a brave look at the possible future of how we manage our living environments. This solution is a skin which covers the entire of a building and acts as a complete environmental solution. The skin, or membrane, is a mix of biochemistry and electronics that will harness the elements outside by absorbing air and moisture, purifying and distributing and transmitting light where needed, managing the internal environment and even recycling the air. Still only a concept, but a brilliant take on nature. Watch the video below to have it all explained.

Both concepts featured on the Mad Architect blog