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Self-Healing Concrete Panels in Sustainable Compact Housing

Author:
Aleksandar Boyadzhiev
Self-Healing Concrete Panels in Sustainable Compact Housing

Project in-detail

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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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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