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Vertical Louvers and Photovoltaic Solutions Enhancing Sustainable Living Near Ancient Pyramids

Author:
Yihia Qandil
Vertical Louvers and Photovoltaic Solutions Enhancing Sustainable Living Near Ancient Pyramids

Project in-detail

Incorporating vertical stone louvers and an innovative Eco-Shield, the design enhances sustainable living while providing a unique experience for visitors near the Great Pyramids.
5 key facts about this project
01
The Eco-Shield creates natural ventilation through positive and negative pressure.
02
Vertical stone louvers reduce solar radiation while allowing filtered light.
03
Photovoltaic panels contribute to energy generation on-site.
04
The layout promotes social interaction among users through thoughtful zoning.
05
Strategically located adjacent to the Great Pyramids enhances cultural immersion.

The 4th Micro-Wonder is located in Egypt, close to the Great Pyramids. It aims to enhance tourism by creating a space that offers meaningful spiritual and visual experiences for visitors. The design brings together elements of ancient culture and modern architectural approaches, focusing on sustainability and engagement with the environment. Thoughtful planning addresses both functionality and the historical context of the site.

Architectural Concept
The design features an envelope that honors the significance of the surrounding area while promoting environmental performance. The Eco-Shield is a key component, working to improve energy efficiency by utilizing natural light, ventilation, and temperature control. By bridging modern design with the historic elements of the site, the concept encourages a connection between visitors and the rich cultural heritage of Egypt.

Site Layout
The building is organized into several functional areas, including living and working spaces, a cooking area, a sleeping quarter, a WC/shower, and under stair storage. Each area serves a specific purpose while facilitating social interaction among users. This careful zoning maximizes space usage and balances privacy with community, resulting in a welcoming environment for guests.

Materiality
Material choices are straightforward but intentional. The project includes steel mesh, photovoltaic fiber optic components, timber structures, vertical stone louvers, stone walls, and timber-patterned windows. These selections reflect both modern sustainability practices and traditional construction techniques, allowing the building to merge naturally with its historic setting.

Sustainability Measures
The design employs various systems focused on energy efficiency and water management. Photovoltaic panels generate electricity, while gray water systems and roof harvesting techniques are used to manage water resources effectively. Organic waste is converted into biogas, showing a commitment to environmental responsibility that aligns with the project’s goals.

The façade displays vertical stone louvers that provide shade and allow light to enter the interior spaces. This thoughtful detail enhances the experience for users while maintaining a connection to the natural environment.

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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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