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Compact Living with Panoramic Windows and Open Layout

Author:
Sasha Hamolin
Compact Living with Panoramic Windows and Open Layout
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Large panoramic windows define a compact living space of 24 square meters that emphasizes an open layout for a family of two, providing a harmonious blend of comfort and functional design.
5 key facts about this project
01
Micro-house designed for a family of two in just 24 square meters.
02
Large panoramic windows enhance natural light and views.
03
Open layout promotes fluid interaction between living spaces.
04
Factory production allows for efficient construction and transport.
05
Independent systems enable off-grid living options.

The modern micro-house is a thoughtful response to the need for compact living, designed for a family of two within a 24 square meter space. It prioritizes function and comfort while integrating a design that maintains a connection to the surrounding environment. The concept emphasizes maximizing usable area without sacrificing openness, featuring large windows that provide ample natural light and views of the outdoors.

Spatial Organization

The interior layout is carefully arranged to include an entrance hall, a dressing room, a spacious bathroom, and a living area that combines both the kitchen and dining spaces. This design fosters interaction among family members and ensures that essential activities can flow easily from one area to another. By promoting a sense of connection, the layout effectively addresses the challenges of living in a smaller space.

Connection to Nature

Large panoramic windows are a defining feature of the micro-house, drawing in natural light and creating a visual link to the surrounding landscape. The expansive views enhance the feeling of space inside, allowing occupants to feel less confined. These windows not only brighten the interiors but also invite a sense of calm, as the natural environment becomes a focal point in daily life.

Adaptability

The micro-house is designed for factory production, which allows for consistent quality and quicker construction times. This method also makes it easier to transport the home to various locations, adapting to different settings and needs. The orientation of windows can be adjusted to maximize views and natural light, further enhancing the living experience based on specific site conditions.

Design Coherence

While specific materials are not specified, the architect has designed all furniture, accessories, and lighting to align with the overall vision of the micro-house. This attention to detail ensures that every element contributes to a unified aesthetic. The simplicity in form and a carefully considered color palette help the structure fit well within diverse environments, whether urban or rural.

Large windows open up the living space, allowing in light and framing the views outside, connecting the inhabitants to nature while providing a comfortable home.

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

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Competition organisers

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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