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Recycled Plastic Blocks and Zinc Roofing in Compact Off-Grid Living

Authors:
Sara Elfallah, Shorieh Talaat
Recycled Plastic Blocks and Zinc Roofing in Compact Off-Grid Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with recycled plastic blocks and topped with zinc roofing, this compact home provides an efficient off-grid living solution tailored for the unique environmental conditions of Cairo, Egypt.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely from recycled plastic blocks for sustainability.
02
Incorporates a zinc roof for efficient rainwater collection.
03
Features natural ventilation through operable curtain walls.
04
Includes a biogas system to process organic waste.
05
Compact layout optimized for multi-functional living spaces.

The rural micro home project introduces a new take on sustainable living, designed specifically for peri-urban areas such as Cairo, Egypt. Covering about 23.5 square meters, it focuses on creating an efficient space that operates independently of external resources. The design responds to local needs, carefully considering economic, cultural, and environmental impacts while being adaptable to various global contexts.

Building Envelope

The structure features a roof made of zinc standing seam panels, which facilitate both rainwater collection and solar energy utilization. This choice reflects a practical approach to energy independence. Walls consist of modular recycled plastic blocks bound with a plant-based sealant, known as polyvinyl acetate, or PVA. This material selection not only promotes sustainability but also improves thermal performance. Large operable windows enhance airflow, contributing to a refreshing indoor atmosphere.

Active and Passive Systems

The micro home is equipped with systems that allow for efficient energy and water management. It includes photovoltaic solar panels to meet electricity needs and a biogas tank that turns organic waste into both biomethane fuel and organic fertilizer for plants. Additionally, the home features water systems that capture hot water and recycle grey water, ensuring efficient resource use.

Spatial Arrangement

The interior is thoughtfully divided into key areas: a main living space, kitchen, shower, and toilet. This setup maximizes functionality in a small area, fitting diverse needs. Flexible furniture, like a desk that can also serve as a bed, adds versatility to the living experience while maintaining comfort.

The design highlights details such as a wind catch, also referred to as "Malkaf," which helps naturally cool the home. Through evaporative techniques, it keeps indoor temperatures pleasant without relying on energy-intensive systems. The combination of these elements creates a space that meets modern living standards with a commitment to sustainability.

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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

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