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Recycled Steel and Eco-Sandwich Panels in Compact Urban Living

Authors:
Viktoriya Gavazova, Petko Petkov
Recycled Steel and Eco-Sandwich Panels in Compact Urban Living
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Utilizing recycled steel and eco-sandwich panels, the microhome offers a sustainable solution for affordable urban living on Adata Island, blending efficient design with a commitment to ecological responsibility.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes recycled steel and eco-sandwich panels for improved sustainability.
02
Features rainwater harvesting systems for efficient water management.
03
Incorporates a composting toilet to reduce environmental impact.
04
Design includes green terraces promoting outdoor activity and community interaction.
05
Maximizes a compact footprint while providing defined functional zones.

The MICROHOME 25FOR2 project is located on Adata Island in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. It addresses the growing need for affordable housing in an urban setting. Aimed primarily at young people and students, the design focuses on functionality and efficiency. It emphasizes compact living while promoting a balance between private spaces and shared areas. The overall concept blends modern design with sustainable practices to create an adaptable living environment.

Building Concept

The layout of MICROHOME 25FOR2 maximizes the use of limited space. It organizes living elements into specific zones, including areas for sleeping, working, cooking, and dining. Outdoor spaces for recreation are also included. This careful planning ensures that every corner serves a purpose, making it suitable for the lifestyle of its residents. The arrangement encourages both individual privacy and social interaction.



Material Selection

Recycled steel forms the core of the building's structure. Known for its sustainability, this material minimizes environmental impact while providing strength and durability. In addition, eco-sandwich facade panels are used to enhance energy efficiency. These panels offer insulation to help regulate indoor temperatures. The thoughtful choice of materials contributes to the home’s overall eco-friendly profile.



Sustainable Features

Sustainability is a key focus in the design. The home incorporates systems for energy generation and water collection. Rainwater is captured from the rooftop and directed to a storage tank, where it is filtered for household use. The inclusion of a composting toilet reduces reliance on traditional plumbing. These features promote a greener lifestyle and lessen the ecological footprint.



Outdoor Integration

Green recreational terraces play an important role in connecting the microhome with the surrounding landscape. These terraces extend usable space and invite residents to engage with nature. They provide areas for relaxation and socializing outside. This connection enhances the living experience, making it feel spacious and open, even within a compact footprint.

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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