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Curved Roof Crafted with PV Glass Integrates Native Flora in a Sustainable Residential Community

Author:
Simona Augello
Curved Roof Crafted with PV Glass Integrates Native Flora in a Sustainable Residential Community

Project in-detail

Crafted with a curved roof of PV glass and shaped by modular grid layouts, the structure harmoniously integrates native flora to create a sustainable living environment designed for community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved roof design incorporates passive solar heating and rainwater harvesting.
02
Modular grid layout enhances adaptability for various residential configurations.
03
Use of local pigments in concrete blends the structure with its natural surroundings.
04
Communal spaces strategically encourage resident interaction and community engagement.
05
Integration of native flora supports local biodiversity and improves microclimate.

### Overview

Villa El Miftuha is located in a culturally rich region designed to integrate traditional Arab architectural elements with contemporary sustainable practices. The project aims to create a residential environment that respects historical narratives while providing adequate amenities for modern living. Its design not only serves functional needs but also seeks to foster a sense of community among residents.

### Spatial Configuration and Community Engagement

The architectural framework emphasizes a **master plan structured on a 3x3 meter grid**. This modular approach facilitates the design of a **sunken district** consisting of interconnected residential units arranged around communal spaces and shared streets, promoting pedestrian-friendly pathways. The open layout includes **interconnected living areas** on the ground floor, with outdoor kitchens that extend the living environment toward nature. The upper levels prioritize privacy through thoughtfully designed bedrooms equipped with ensuite bathrooms and walk-in wardrobes, creating a balance between private and communal living.

### Material Efficiency and Environmental Integration

Material selection plays a vital role in enhancing the sustainability of Villa El Miftuha. The use of **locally sourced concrete** mixed with native materials not only aligns the structure with its surroundings but also reduces heat absorption. **Reinforced steel elements** contribute to structural stability while **flexible thin-gauge steel** allows for dynamic roof curvatures, assisting with both aesthetic appeal and functionality such as rainwater harvesting. The incorporation of **photovoltaic glass** optimizes energy use while ensuring visual transparency. Native plants integrated into the courtyards enhance ecological diversity and contribute to natural cooling, reinforcing the project's commitment to environmental harmony.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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