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Charred Wooden Shingles and Rainwater Harvesting in a Self-Sufficient Urban Residence

Author:
Khaled Ahmed Mohamed Elsayed Abdelrahman
Charred Wooden Shingles and Rainwater Harvesting in a Self-Sufficient Urban Residence

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and a comprehensive rainwater harvesting system, this urban residence exemplifies self-sufficiency through sustainable design while providing a versatile living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a biogas system for cooking fuel derived from organic waste.
02
Features a dual water management system for rainwater harvesting and gray water recycling.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Incorporates large skylights to maximize natural light and ventilation throughout the building.
05
Employs charred wooden shingles for durability and a unique aesthetic complementing the urban environment.

### Overview

Located in a contemporary urban context, the House of the Future employs innovative architectural strategies to promote sustainability and self-sufficiency. This dwelling integrates advanced technologies within its design to address pressing environmental concerns while facilitating efficient resource management. The architectural intent is to create a living space that empowers occupants to minimize their ecological footprint through various sustainable features.

### Sustainable Systems and Resource Management

The design incorporates robust energy and water management systems. A solar panel array on the roof serves as the primary source of electricity, enabling the home to achieve energy independence. Complementing this, a biogas tank converts organic waste into usable gas for cooking, thus promoting waste recycling. Water management is further enhanced through a dual source recycling system that repurposes gray water for irrigation and household cleaning, in addition to a rainwater harvesting system that contributes to overall water conservation efforts.

### Spatial Flexibility and User Experience

Interior spaces are designed with functionality in mind, accommodating diverse needs through adaptable layouts. Key features include flexible areas such as a gym and multifunctional recreational spaces that foster outdoor engagement. The integration of large skylights not only enhances natural light and ventilation but also contributes to thermal regulation, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and climate control systems. This emphasis on natural elements seeks to enhance the overall living experience while maintaining comfort and energy efficiency.

### Material Selection and Structural Integrity

The use of reinforced concrete provides durability for structural elements, while expansive glass features maximize natural light and connect indoor spaces with the outside environment. Steel frames support innovative architectural forms, showcasing both strength and aesthetic qualities. Sustainable insulation materials are utilized to improve energy performance and ensure comfortable indoor climates throughout the year. This thoughtful selection of materials underscores a commitment to environmentally responsible construction practices.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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