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Floating Community Built From Recycled Plastic and Gray Water Systems Embracing Ecological Living

Authors:
Aya Mostafa Amin Abdelaziz Mostafa, Aya Mostafa Amin Abdelaziz Mostafa, Ayman Mohamed Ismail Abdellatif
Floating Community Built From Recycled Plastic and Gray Water Systems Embracing Ecological Living

Project in-detail

Constructed from recycled plastic and integrated gray water systems, this floating community enhances ecological living while providing sustainable housing solutions for local fishermen.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a modular design that enhances communal living while maintaining individual privacy.
02
Incorporates reclaimed local plastics and gray water systems for sustainable resource management.
03
Features integrated hydroponic systems that promote food self-sufficiency within the community.
04
Constructed to adapt to rising water levels, ensuring resilience against environmental changes.
05
Promotes social cohesion through shared spaces and communal decks designed for gatherings.

### Project Overview
Econile is a floating microboating community situated in Cairo’s Nile River, designed specifically to address the environmental challenges and socio-economic needs of the local fishing community. With a focus on sustainability and community cohesion, the project aims to support approximately 1,000 fishermen and 4,000 farmers who face significant economic and environmental pressures. The architecture integrates sustainable living principles through the innovative use of recycled materials, contributing to the development of a resilient community.

### Material Innovation
The design prioritizes ecological responsibility through the careful selection of materials that promote sustainability. Recycled wood panels provide structural support and aesthetic appeal, while 3D printed components made from recycled plastic are utilized for hydroponic systems and decorative elements. Polycarbonate panels, known for their lightweight and durable properties, enhance natural light and energy efficiency in walls and roofing. Efficient gray water systems enable the recycling of used water for irrigation, complemented by water turbines to generate sustainable electricity. The incorporation of a hydroponic plantation system underscores a commitment to self-sufficiency by supporting food production within the community.

### Community-Focused Design
Employing a modular design approach, the project organizes housing units into clusters that foster social interaction through shared spaces. Each "microhome" features adaptable living areas optimized for small-space functionality, with sleeping and work spaces incorporated into lofts above. Shared decks serve as social hubs, fostering community bonding through gatherings and events. Smart systems, including solar panels and rainwater harvesting, support off-grid living, further enhancing the project's sustainability objectives. The overall layout and functionality reflect a dedication to creating an integrated village that emphasizes resource sharing and communal responsibilities.

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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
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