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Self-Healing Concrete Panels in Sustainable Compact Housing

Author:
Aleksandar Boyadzhiev
Self-Healing Concrete Panels in Sustainable Compact Housing
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Using self-healing concrete panels, the compact housing solution addresses water scarcity through integrated sustainable technologies, paving the way for efficient living spaces in the Black Sea region.
5 key facts about this project
01
Self-healing concrete panels autonomously repair cracks, enhancing structural longevity.
02
Integrated water management systems capture and utilize rainwater efficiently.
03
Compact design promotes multifunctional living in limited space.
04
Modular construction allows for flexible configurations tailored to user needs.
05
Constructed with materials sourced to minimize environmental impact.

The Bio Concrete Module is an innovative response to the pressing issue of water shortages in the Black Sea region of Bulgaria. It integrates compact living solutions that include bathrooms, kitchens, sleeping areas, and workspaces. The design prioritizes efficient use of available space while encouraging sustainable living practices. The overall concept aims to address the challenges posed by climate change in a straightforward manner.

Materials

Precast self-healing concrete panels are a central component of the design. These panels are made up of several layers, including concrete wythes, reinforcement, insulation, and connectors. This multi-layered system enhances the building's structural strength while introducing a self-healing capability. When cracks develop, the concrete can produce limestone to fill these gaps, reducing the need for ongoing maintenance and extending the building’s lifespan.

Water Management System

The project features a thoughtful water-saving system that aims to lessen reliance on external resources. This includes a solar water heating system and clean water pipes, along with two solar electric panels. The design also incorporates a roof designed for collecting rainwater, a main water tank, and various irrigation elements. Together, these systems enable efficient water use and support the sustainable focus of the design.

Geographical Context

Located in an area that faces significant environmental challenges, the Bio Concrete Module is relevant not just for Bulgaria, but also for neighboring countries like Romania, Serbia, Greece, and Turkey. The design takes into account local climate conditions. It seeks to promote resource conservation and respond to the practical needs of the region.

The design balances functionality and aesthetics without complicating the user experience. Practical features, such as the integration of water collection and solar energy systems, combine to create a living environment that meets modern demands. The module offers a useful example of how future residential developments can embrace sustainability while remaining accessible and efficient.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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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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