Solar Decathlon Europe 2010 – Team IKAROS Bavaria

In 2010, the University of Applied Sciences Rosenheim participated in the first Solar Decathlon Europe competition held in Madrid, Spain. The challenge brought together 17 international university teams to design and build energy-efficient prefabricated houses.

The Rosenheim team, IKAROS Bavaria, earned second place overall in the competition with their modular timber house. The building was designed for rapid assembly and sustainability, demonstrating how prefabricated timber construction can meet demanding performance criteria under competition conditions.

Key highlights:

KNAPP connectors: The team relied on WALCO V, RICON, and QUATRO 65 connectors, ensuring fast, precise, and repeatable assembly of modular timber units.
Energy-efficient design: As part of the Solar Decathlon requirements, the house integrated renewable energy systems and passive design strategies.
International recognition: The project was praised for its architectural clarity, technical performance, and adaptability, finishing second among 17 global teams.
Student-driven innovation: The build served as both a competition entry and a proof-of-concept for future modular, sustainable housing solutions.

The Solar Decathlon Europe 2010 highlighted how KNAPP connectors support modular timber housing at the highest level of international competition. The IKAROS Bavaria house remains a showcase for student innovation and sustainable construction.