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Geopolymer Construction and Eco-Friendly Elements in Hexagonal Microhousing Solutions

Authors:
Eleftheria Porfyriadi, Konstantinos Tzerniadakis
Geopolymer Construction and Eco-Friendly Elements in Hexagonal Microhousing Solutions

Project in-detail

Incorporating geopolymer construction and a hexagonal layout, this microhousing initiative emphasizes community living and environmental sustainability, offering a resilient solution for modern urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes geopolymer concrete to significantly reduce carbon footprint.
02
Features a hexagonal layout for optimized space efficiency and community interaction.
03
Incorporates recycled wood for structural elements and interior finishes.
04
Includes extensive green roof systems for enhanced insulation and biodiversity.
05
Integrates communal spaces designed for social engagement among residents.

## Project Overview

The Hu-bees Community project is located in North Greece, near the village of Zagliver in Macedonia, and represents an innovative approach to microhousing. The design is grounded in sustainability, community living, and adaptability, addressing contemporary housing challenges while respecting environmental and social contexts. By weaving modern living practices with ecological considerations, the initiative aims to enhance the quality of life for its residents while fostering cohesive community interactions.

## Spatial Strategy

The hexagonal layout of the dwellings is informed by the structure of a honeycomb, optimizing space utilization for households and minimizing waste. This design not only allows for smart storage solutions and multifunctional spaces but also enables the homes to accommodate varying family sizes, with options for units measuring 25 m² to 50 m². Shared communal areas encourage social interaction, while private segments provide necessary personal space. Large windows and skylights enhance the connection between indoor and outdoor environments, further enriching the living experience.

## Material Sustainability

Sustainability is a core principle of the Hu-bees Community, evident in its selection of materials. Green concrete, sourced as a geopolymer alternative, reduces the carbon footprint associated with traditional concrete use. Recycled wood is utilized for furniture and structural elements, while double low-emission glazed windows improve thermal efficiency. Additionally, photovoltaic panels are installed to harness renewable energy, and radiant floor heating systems enhance indoor comfort. The design also incorporates the Kingspan Dri-Design Cassette System for the facade, balancing aesthetic appeal with functional performance.

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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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