Villa Troglodyte is a true environmental laboratory in Monaco. Built within a protohistoric rock by JB Pastor&Fils, it explores a number of possibilities for the housing of the future.
The aim is to conserve energy, make use of natural energy sources like solar power, and recover rainwater.
“Given the warming climate, it was important to work with the energy we get from the ground and from the sun,” explains architect Jean-Pierre Lott.
This 520-m2 villa, spread over five levels, also has solar panels and geothermal probes to generate electricity and provide heating, while the water treatment plant employs the same materials that are used in space shuttles… “Grey water and waste water is recycled and used elsewhere in the building for watering plants or for toilets,” adds Mr Lott.
All of the materials used to build the home have been selected due to their environmental footprint. From the lime-based paint to the cork insulation, not forgetting the parquet flooring made from oyster farm piles, which were submerged underwater for 100 years…
Villa Troglodyte is the first Monegasque building to be awarded a gold Sustainable Mediterranean Building certification, an environmental scheme which takes account of good construction practices that promote comfort and health while addressing environmental, social and economic challenges.
