40,000 Recycled Plastic Bottles Insulate the Gorgeous Zero Energy Tvzeb Studio in Italy

This gorgeous <a href="http://www.tvzeb.org">zero energy Tvzeb studio</a> boasts all kinds of innovative design strategies - from geothermal and solar energy generation to a Corten steel shell, extensive glazing to maximize views and winter solar gain, <a href="http://inhabitat.com/tag/led-lights/">LED lighting</a> and wall and roof insulation made out of 40,000 <a href="http://inhabitat.com/tag/recycled-plastic-bottles/">recycled plastic bottles</a>. Located in the wooded hills of historic Vicenza, the collaborative project was undertaken by Italy's <a href="http://www.traverso-vighy.com">traverso-vighy architecture</a> and the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/University_of_Padua">University of Padua’s Department of Technical Physics</a>.

This gorgeous architectural studio was designed as a collaborative effort between Traverso-Vighy Architecture and the University of Padua in Italy

The zero energy project showcases a host of sustainable design strategies

Weather-resistant larch was used throughout

Both the north and south walls are fully glazed, allow natural light, wintertime solar gain, and expansive views

Custom LED lighting supplements natural light on particularly hot and cold days

Livability and comfort were key design drivers

This diagram demonstrates how the building was oriented to maximize natural light and solar gain

A beautiful wooden pathway leads to the studio

Three different kinds of LED lighting was used inside

Larch is commonly used in the hills surrounding Vicenza

There is a strong connection between the indoors and outdoors facilitated by recessed glazing

Rooftop PV panels provide year-round energy

A geothermal pump and wood-fired stove provide additional heating