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Salvaged Bricks and Eco-Friendly Systems Defining Sustainable Living in Urban Communities

Authors:
Shereen Khafagy, Rania Mohamed, Rachel George
Salvaged Bricks and Eco-Friendly Systems Defining Sustainable Living in Urban Communities

Project in-detail

Utilizing salvaged bricks and a rainwater collection system, the design promotes sustainable living while providing micro-housing solutions for underserved urban communities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally salvaged bricks to reduce environmental impact.
02
Integrates workshops for skill development and economic empowerment.
03
Features a rainwater collection system for sustainable resource management.
04
Designed as micro-housing units to support densely populated urban settings.
05
Community spaces foster social interaction and enhance resident engagement.
The ALDAR project is an architectural initiative located in Manshiyet Nasser, Cairo, Egypt. Designed to address the pressing challenges of urban waste management and community development, this project represents a strategic integration of housing, economic opportunity, and sustainable practices. ALDAR aims to provide affordable housing while empowering residents through the incorporation of workshops that support craftsmanship and trade.

Housing Design and Community Functionality

ALDAR features a distinctive L-shaped housing configuration, consisting of triple 3x3 meter bays that optimize space for both private and communal use. The design incorporates designated areas for workshops, allowing residents to engage in small-scale production, thus fostering economic independence. Additionally, the project includes spaces for community interaction, which serve to strengthen social bonds among residents. The architectural layout prioritizes accessibility and functionality, ensuring that both living and workspaces meet the needs of the community.

Sustainable Material Use and Construction Practices

A notable aspect of the ALDAR design is its emphasis on sustainability through the use of locally sourced and salvaged materials. Terra-cotta bricks and other reclaimed materials contribute to the structural integrity of the buildings while reducing waste. The project integrates solar energy systems to promote energy independence, enabling residents to generate and potentially sell excess power back to the grid. Furthermore, a rainwater collection system and an efficient waste management system are included to minimize environmental impact and support community health.

Unique Design Approaches

What sets ALDAR apart from similar projects is its community-centric approach that actively involves residents in the rehabilitation of their living environment. This model emphasizes the importance of local craftsmanship and economic collaboration, providing a framework for sustainable living. The architectural design not only addresses immediate housing needs but also equips residents with the tools for long-term resilience and self-sufficiency.

For those interested in understanding this project more deeply, explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs presented in the full project overview to gain insights into its innovative features and community-oriented methodologies.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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