apartment therapy changing the world, one room at a time

Both homes (located in Germany) are green. In addition to its recyclable frame, the R128 has self-sufficient heating and energy systems powered by solar cells.

The glass panels are triple-glazed and have very low emissivity, making them energy-efficient while still providing incredible views.

The H16 is also tripled-glazed. It uses geothermal heating combined with solar panels to stay off the grid.

With geothermal heating systems, heat exchange is conducted deep within the earth through tubes that are naturally cooled during summer and warmed during winter.

Both buildings have a modernist aesthetic, but their material composition is very much of the 21st century. The prefab parts cut down on construction costs, while green energy systems have long-term benefits both environmentally and economically. For more information on Werner Sobek's green buildings, click here.