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Sand Silica Construction with Elevated Organic Forms for Sustainable Micro Living

Authors:
Samer El sayary, Ahmad Halabi, Maha Ftouni
Sand Silica Construction with Elevated Organic Forms for Sustainable Micro Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing sand silica for its structural elements, this micro home incorporates elevated organic forms and passive cooling techniques, creating an environmentally sensitive living space tailored for the harsh Sahara climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced sand silica for 3D-printed structural components.
02
Incorporates passive airflow systems through strategically placed openings.
03
Elevated design enhances thermal comfort and utilizes under-structure space.
04
Integrates traditional vernacular elements with modern construction techniques.
05
Focused on community living with multifunctional interior spaces.

The African Sahara Micro Home project embodies a synthesis of traditional architectural principles and modern technological advancements. Positioned within the arid landscapes of the Sahara, this micro home serves multiple functions, prioritizing sustainability and environmental adaptability. It stands as a representation of contemporary living that seeks to harmonize with its surrounding context while making effective use of local materials.

This architectural design emphasizes a compact and efficient living space that supports critical daily activities, such as cooking, sleeping, and social interaction. The layout facilitates a comfortable living experience in a challenging climate, reflecting a design approach that prioritizes functionality without compromising aesthetic value.

Innovative Use of Local Materials
The project’s commitment to sustainability is manifested through the careful selection of local materials, including sand silica and glass silica, which are utilized in the 3D printing process. This approach not only reduces environmental impact due to minimized transportation needs but also aligns with traditional practices in the region. These materials contribute to the durability and thermal efficiency of the micro home, ensuring a comfortable indoor climate despite external temperature fluctuations.

The integration of metal reinforcement within the design further enhances structural stability, allowing the home to withstand the harsh desert environment. This unique blend of materials showcases an architectural strategy that respects local traditions while embracing modern construction techniques.

Adaptive Architectural Features
The African Sahara Micro Home incorporates several distinctive design features that address both its environmental context and cultural significance. The organic shapes that characterize the structure mimic natural forms and enhance the visual connection to the landscape. Careful attention to ventilation design is achieved through strategically placed openings, which promote airflow and passive cooling, core principles in traditional desert architecture.

In addition, the elevated structure created by lifting the home off the ground fosters natural ventilation and provides additional utility with a walkable space underneath, effectively utilizing the plot's footprint. This aspect of the design reflects an understanding of historical building methods while adapting them to contemporary needs.

The project not only meets the fundamental requirements for shelter but also engages with the cultural practices of community living by incorporating multiple functional zones within the micro home. This aspect illustrates a focus on creating spaces that foster interaction and connectivity among inhabitants, thus enriching the living experience.

The African Sahara Micro Home serves as a practical example of how architecture can innovate while respecting and reinterpreting cultural heritage. To deepen your understanding of this architectural exploration, be sure to review the architectural plans, sections, and designs related to the project for further insights into its unique concepts and methodologies.

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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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