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Elevated Concrete and Steel Structure with Modular Expansion for Sustainable Housing

Authors:
William Oduor, Anna Siu
Elevated Concrete and Steel Structure with Modular Expansion for Sustainable Housing

Project in-detail

Elevated above potential flooding, the concrete and steel structure offers modular living spaces designed for adaptability and sustainability within Nairobi's urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design enhances airflow and flood resilience.
02
Modular construction allows for incremental expansion by residents.
03
Use of durable concrete and galvanized steel maximizes structural integrity.
04
Incorporates natural light through strategically placed glass elements.
05
Outdoor terraces create communal spaces for social interaction.

# Analytical Report on Haba na Haba House

## Project Overview
Located in the informal settlement of Kibera in Nairobi, Kenya, the Haba na Haba House addresses the urgent need for affordable housing within densely populated urban contexts. It serves as a prototype for sustainable living, designed to accommodate the realities of rapid urbanization and the challenges faced by marginalized communities. The project emphasizes a gradual approach to housing development, reflecting the Swahili translation of its name, which means "little by little."

## Spatial Organization and Flexibility
The spatial strategy of the Haba na Haba House is characterized by a modular configuration that allows for adaptation as the needs of its inhabitants evolve. Key design elements include spacious living areas that support multifunctional use, private quarters that maintain a sense of intimacy, and flexible spaces encouraging creative re-purposing. This thoughtful organization promotes interaction among residents while ensuring privacy, with an open plan that facilitates natural light and ventilation throughout the structure.

## Sustainable Material Choices
Sustainability is a core focus in the material selection for the Haba na Haba House, with an emphasis on durability and environmental responsibility. Notable materials include concrete for structural integrity, galvanized steel for support elements resistant to corrosion, and wood as a warm interior finish. Glass features prominently in fenestration to enhance daylighting. Furthermore, insulation materials ensure thermal comfort, while waterproofing membranes protect against moisture. Together, these choices reflect an intention to create a resilient and energy-efficient living environment.

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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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