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Sustainable Silica Structures with 3D Printed Features for Desert Living

Authors:
Samer El sayary, Ahmad Halabi, Maha Ftouni
Sustainable Silica Structures with 3D Printed Features for Desert Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing locally sourced sand silica and advanced 3D printing technology, this micro home seamlessly integrates passive cooling features and cultural heritage into a sustainable living solution for the harsh Sahara environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced sand silica, the micro home utilizes a 3D printing method to enhance sustainability and reduce waste.
02
Optimized for the Sahara’s climate, the design features strategically placed openings for natural ventilation and passive cooling.
03
The elevated structure creates shaded outdoor areas, enhancing usability and comfort in the extreme desert environment.
04
Incorporating traditional African architectural elements, the design strengthens the connection between inhabitants and their cultural heritage.
05
The multifaceted interior layout is adaptable for communal and private activities, reflecting diverse lifestyles and fostering community engagement.
The African Sahara Micro Home project represents a thoughtful exploration of architectural design that integrates traditional African building practices with modern technology. Situated in the challenging environment of the Sahara Desert, this project aims to provide a sustainable and functional housing solution. The design encapsulates diverse cultural influences while addressing the specific demands of desert living.

This project functions as more than just a shelter. It is envisioned as a micro-living environment that fosters community, promotes cultural heritage, and showcases sustainable innovation within architecture. The layout of the micro home is carefully considered, featuring a cohesive arrangement of spaces that prioritize both communal interaction and personal retreat. The home integrates living, cooking, sleeping, and communal areas, each designed to facilitate daily activities while maintaining a connection to the surrounding landscape.

One of the important aspects of this project is its emphasis on materiality. Utilizing locally sourced materials, such as sand silica for the structural components, reflects a commitment to sustainability and resourcefulness. The application of glass 3D printing technology not only enhances the aesthetic qualities of the home but also allows for rapid construction and reduced waste. This innovative approach contributes to the overall performance of the house in its desert environment, where durability and climate adaptability are essential.

The design also incorporates dynamic characteristics that respond to the natural elements of the Sahara. Unique features include strategically placed openings that facilitate airflow, benefiting from the natural breezes that traverse the desert landscape. This allows for passive cooling, ensuring that the interior remains comfortable despite the high temperatures outside. The elevated form of the building further creates shaded outdoor spaces, enhancing the usability of the home and integrating it with the environment.

Additionally, the architectural design captures the essence of traditional African architecture, combining familiar forms with contemporary practices. This interplay between heritage and modernity enriches the living experience, fostering a strong relationship between the inhabitants and their surroundings. The careful consideration of spatial organization allows flexibility in the use of space, accommodating diverse lifestyles and activities that reflect the cultural context.

To delve deeper into the project’s architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation. This exploration will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the architectural considerations and design methodologies that inform the African Sahara Micro Home, showcasing how this project seeks to address both present and future housing needs in harmony with its cultural and environmental context.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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