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Sustainable Living Enhanced by Recycled Concrete and Thermal Insulation in an Urban Setting

Author:
Muhannad Sheikh Salem
Sustainable Living Enhanced by Recycled Concrete and Thermal Insulation in an Urban Setting

Project in-detail

Utilizing recycled concrete and thermal insulation, the design integrates a green roof and cross-ventilation to create a sustainable urban dwelling that adapts to the needs of its inhabitants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a green roof system for effective stormwater management and insulation.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and environmental durability.
03
Features large openings in the facade promoting natural ventilation and light.
04
Employs charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetics.
05
Designed with an adaptable layout allowing for future modifications without major renovations.

### Overview
Located in a climate-sensitive area, the project emphasizes compliance with environmental and aesthetic considerations while addressing both social and financial needs. The design integrates sustainability, flexibility, and affordability, aiming to harmonize living spaces with the surrounding landscape through adaptable materials and strategic spatial arrangements.

### Spatial Configuration
The spatial organization prioritizes functionality and user privacy while encouraging social interaction. The ground floor features multiple entries and communal areas, such as a family room that connects to private spaces like bathrooms and storage, facilitating smooth transitions between areas. On the first floor, the layout focuses on privacy with bedrooms and shared bathrooms designed to invite natural light and ventilation, enhancing overall livability. Flexible partitioning enhances adaptability, allowing spaces to be reconfigured based on user requirements.

### Material and Sustainability Strategies
A diverse selection of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and efficiency. Key materials include thermal insulation plaster, expanded aluminum sheets, and recycled concrete components, among others. The project employs a gray water recycling system for irrigation, along with a smart HVAC system that optimizes energy usage according to occupancy patterns. Additionally, the integration of solar panels contributes to the overall sustainability profile, while features such as a green roof not only provide insulation but also aid in rainwater collection. These elements illustrate a thoughtful approach to construction practices that aim to minimize waste and maximize resource efficiency.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
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The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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