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Reimagining Privacy With Recycled Lattice Screens In Contemporary Urban Living

Authors:
Betsalel Hillel Fogel, Cindi Angelica Caggiano Pura, Alexandra-markela Stergiou
Reimagining Privacy With Recycled Lattice Screens In Contemporary Urban Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing recycled lattice screens and polyhedral modularity, this design reinterprets traditional privacy elements to create adaptable urban housing solutions that promote community living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes recycled plastics for lattice screens, enhancing sustainability and visual appeal.
02
Incorporates a polyhedral modular design, allowing flexible adaptation of living spaces.
03
Employs natural ventilation strategies through strategically placed openings for energy efficiency.
04
Features water capture systems using fog nets to promote resource conservation.
05
Includes communal areas that foster social interaction while ensuring privacy for residents.

### Overview
The Mashrabiya Paradigm project is designed as a contemporary residential solution that synthesizes traditional Islamic architectural elements with modern sustainability practices. Located within a post-industrial context, the project aims to address the evolving requirements of families by emphasizing innovative housing that is both flexible and modular. The core concept involves a modern interpretation of the *mashrabiya*, traditionally a projecting balcony that enhances privacy while promoting natural ventilation and light.

### Spatial Strategy and Adaptability
Central to the spatial approach is the polyhedral arrangement of modular units that can be adjusted according to the occupants' varying needs. This flexibility allows for diverse family configurations, addressing different living conditions and promoting an adaptable lifestyle. The ground floor is designed with communal spaces to encourage interaction among residents, while private areas are strategically positioned to maintain individual privacy without sacrificing accessibility. Additionally, the integration of courtyards and terraces fosters a connection with the outdoors, enhancing livability.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The project employs a diverse palette of materials that enhance both functional and aesthetic qualities. Primary materials include durable concrete for structural frameworks, glass for maximizing natural light, and recycled plastics for decorative lattice screens, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. Gypsum board is used for interior finishes, while aluminum and wood are incorporated in window frames and cabinetry, respectively, to balance durability and warmth.

Sustainability is further emphasized through features such as natural ventilation, facilitated by strategically located openings, and water capture systems utilizing fog nets for enhanced water resource management. The incorporation of wind turbines within the architecture supports energy generation, contributing to a self-sufficient residential environment. The project's innovative blend of traditional design motifs with modern ecological considerations articulates a forward-thinking approach to housing in urban settings.

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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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