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Dynamic Living Through Moving Partitions and Sustainable Systems

Author:
Blake Massie
Dynamic Living Through Moving Partitions and Sustainable Systems
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Incorporating moving partitions and a rainwater collection system, this compact living space prioritizes adaptability and sustainability to support a self-sufficient lifestyle.
5 key facts about this project
01
Moving partitions create flexible living areas that adapt to daily activities.
02
Integrated growing beds allow residents to cultivate plants within the living space.
03
A rainwater collection system with a filtration process supports sustainable water use.
04
The structure sits on a pier foundation, preserving the surrounding natural landscape.
05
Cross-ventilation strategies enhance indoor air quality and reduce energy consumption.

Shift House is designed to support a self-sufficient lifestyle within a compact 25 m² space. It can adapt to various geographical settings and emphasizes both function and sustainability. The overall design concept focuses on creating a flexible living environment that meets modern ecological needs while offering practical solutions for everyday life.

Exterior Deck and Moving Shade Partition

The house features an exterior deck that acts as an extension of the living area. It encourages outdoor activities and helps connect the indoor space with nature. Alongside the deck is a moving shade partition, which helps control sunlight entering the space. This partition allows residents to adjust their living conditions throughout the day, enhancing comfort and usability.

Interior Configuration

Inside, the design includes a moving wall that conceals a Murphy bed and dining table. This clever arrangement makes the most of the limited space, allowing for quick changes in the living area according to daily activities. The mobility of these elements promotes both comfort and efficiency, making the space adaptable for various tasks from cooking to relaxing.

Sustainable Features

Sustainability plays a key role in the design. Growing beds are integrated into the moving partition and exterior deck, allowing inhabitants to grow their own plants and vegetables. The design supports a deeper connection to food production. Additionally, the rainwater collection system directs harvested water into a greywater tank. Here, a three-step filtration process treats the water, making it safe for use. These features demonstrate a commitment to managing resources wisely and reducing waste.

Passive Design Strategies

The building also implements passive design strategies, such as cross ventilation and solar control. These methods improve indoor air quality and provide comfort in a way that minimizes energy use. Sitting on a pier foundation, the house avoids disrupting the natural landscape, preserving the existing topography and hydrology.

The thoughtful integration of these elements results in a functional living space. The design reflects a practical and sustainable approach, marking a clear step toward more responsible living solutions.

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Enter an open architecture
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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