No Footprint House: A Sustainable Architectural Marvel

Oliver Schutte's Innovative Residential Prototype

The NFH, nestled in the humid tropical climate of Costa Rica's southern Pacific coast, is a unique response to its surrounding habitat. Its design features passive climate control through natural ventilation and solar shading. The inclined facade panels can be individually adjusted to regulate views, air flows, and privacy, blurring the lines between interior and exterior spaces - a key feature of tropical architecture.

This project is based on a prefabricated component design system. The prototype was built with a structural steel frame and pine wood finishes, prefabricated in the Central Valley of Costa Rica, and delivered to its site on a single truck. The team is currently developing additional structural systems to offer more configuration options and improve project performance.

The built prototype is based on a 12x9 meter structural grid, broken down into prefabricated units of 3x3 meters each. The central service core measures 6x3 meters, containing two bathrooms and all technical equipment. With cantilevering and double-height floor areas, the building totals 150 square meters, designed as a spacious residence for one family. However, alternative pre-designed typologies for individuals and small families are also available.

The NFH offers three different sizes that can be auto-configured with regards to internal distribution, material finishes, and level of services. All elements and materials are selected based on a thorough investigation of their origin, processing, cost, and environmental footprint. They can be chosen according to site-specific requirements and client needs.

The NFH is an ongoing project. The prototype in Costa Rica was designed and developed in 2017, tested on-site in 2018, and documented in 2019. The team is working on additional component designs and material solutions to enrich the NFH toolbox and create solutions for a broad customer segment. They aim to become carbon-neutral by 2021 and extend production for export by 2022.

The NFH is a testament to the power of innovative design in addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development. It is a shining example of how architecture can be used as a tool for positive change, and a reminder that the future of design lies in sustainability and innovation.