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Self-Cleaning Glass and Reinforced Concrete Create Sustainable Living Spaces With Integrated Courtyards

Authors:
Manar Ahmed Abdelrahman Algammal, Ali Amr, Sama Hisham, Ahmed Mahmoud Abdelazim Mahmoud
Self-Cleaning Glass and Reinforced Concrete Create Sustainable Living Spaces With Integrated Courtyards

Project in-detail

Incorporating self-healing concrete and double-glazed windows, the design enhances energy efficiency while integrating landscaped courtyards, creating a contemporary family home that prioritizes comfort and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates self-healing concrete to enhance structural longevity.
02
Features extensive use of double-glazed windows for improved thermal performance.
03
Includes landscaped internal courtyards that promote natural ventilation.
04
Utilizes modular bricks for efficient construction and insulation.
05
Employs self-cleaning glass to reduce maintenance and improve longevity.

### Mahwa Residential Project Overview

The Mahwa Residential Project is situated within a setting where natural and urban elements converge, facilitating an exploration of residential design that embraces sustainability and aesthetic sensibility. This endeavor integrates contemporary architectural principles to create living spaces that prioritize environmental stewardship, comfort, and user experience.

#### Spatial Organization

The project is carefully arranged across three levels to differentiate between private and communal areas. The ground floor comprises common spaces—including the living room, dining area, and kitchen—designed to promote social interaction. Internal courtyards enhance ventilation and allow natural light to permeate these areas. The first floor is dedicated to private quarters, featuring bedrooms and bathrooms that are strategically positioned to overlook greenery, fostering a sense of tranquility. The second floor serves as a versatile multipurpose area, equipped with an outdoor terrace that extends usable living space.

#### Material and Technological Innovations

The exterior materials reflect a thoughtful approach to both aesthetics and sustainability. The structure utilizes reinforced concrete for durability, while natural stone finishes provide a tactile contrast that connects to the landscape. Wooden elements introduce warmth, and extensive glazing enhances transparency, inviting ample natural light. Noteworthy innovations include self-healing concrete and self-cleaning glass, which contribute to reduced maintenance requirements and increased longevity. Advanced technologies, such as double glazing for improved insulation and modular bricks designed for thermal performance, further enhance the building's efficiency and functionality.

The landscaping integrates with the architectural design, featuring courtyards that offer recreational spaces and vegetational cooling systems that minimize reliance on artificial climate control. Privacy was also a key consideration, with landscaped barriers and window orientation designed to protect residents while maintaining openness. The careful balance of these elements supports a living environment that is both private and communal, reflecting a comprehensive approach to modern residential architecture.

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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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