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Dry Toilets and Green Roofs in A Modular Microhome Using Local Materials

Authors:
Jeremy Cyrille Barla Ekwe, Nelson Christian Ndjoune Kosso, Marion Limouzy, Caroline Veronique Engome épouse Barla Ekwe
Dry Toilets and Green Roofs in A Modular Microhome Using Local Materials

Project in-detail

Constructed with local clay bricks and featuring dry toilets alongside green roofs, the microhome promotes sustainability and community resilience while providing essential housing in a challenging urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes local clay bricks for improved thermal regulation.
02
Integrates dry toilets to enhance water conservation efforts.
03
Features green roofs that support local biodiversity and food production.
04
Encourages communal living through strategically designed shared spaces.
05
Incorporates rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable resource management.

Terra 25 Microhome is an architectural design project located in Douala, Cameroon. It addresses the pressing need for sustainable housing in a culturally rich but economically challenged urban context. The project serves as a model for integrating modern living conditions with ecological awareness and community resilience. By prioritizing local materials, sustainable practices, and communal spaces, Terra 25 aims to enhance the quality of life for its residents while minimizing environmental impact.

The architecture of Terra 25 features a tiered design, organized into distinct functional levels. The ground level is predominantly dedicated to vegetable gardens, fostering self-sufficiency in food production. The first level includes living spaces arranged around a semi-public courtyard, promoting social interaction among residents. At the second level, elevated roofs provide shade and facilitate natural ventilation, essential for the tropical climate.

The project differentiates itself through its innovative approach to sustainability and community living. Unlike conventional microhome designs that focus solely on individual units, Terra 25 integrates shared spaces and gardens to foster a sense of community. The dry toilets incorporated into the design highlight an advanced approach to sanitation and waste management. This feature not only conserves water but also transforms human waste into compost, thus closing the nutrient loop within the housing ecosystem.

Another unique aspect of the Terra 25 Microhome is its integration of renewable energy solutions. The roofs are designed to accommodate solar panels, promoting energy independence for residents. This architectural strategy reflects a commitment to environmental stewardship and resource efficiency, crucial for impoverished urban settings facing utility shortages.

The material selection for Terra 25 is purposeful, focusing on locally sourced elements such as clay bricks and metal sheeting. These materials contribute to the building's thermal regulation and sustainability while fostering economic opportunities for local suppliers. The overall design supports ecological balance by incorporating green roofs that enhance biodiversity and improve residents' quality of life.

For those interested in exploring the architectural details further, a review of the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide deeper insights into the innovative features and sustainable practices utilized in the Terra 25 Microhome project. The architectural ideas behind this project showcase an effective response to urban housing challenges while contributing to a more resilient community lifestyle.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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