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Dynamic Living Through Moving Partitions and Sustainable Systems

Author:
Blake Massie
Dynamic Living Through Moving Partitions and Sustainable Systems

Project in-detail

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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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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