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Flexible Living Spaces With Nomadic Apparatuses and Sustainable Wood Elements

Authors:
Yifan Shen, Yue Zhuo
Flexible Living Spaces With Nomadic Apparatuses and Sustainable Wood Elements

Project in-detail

Nomadic apparatuses and moveable elements define a flexible living environment, creating a seamless blend of shared and personal spaces that cater to communal functions in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Nomadic apparatuses allow for dynamic reconfiguration of living spaces.
02
A vertical greenhouse integrates urban gardening into communal areas.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Charred wooden shingles provide a unique aesthetic and fire resistance.
05
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and ventilation throughout the building.
"The Domestic Nomad" is an architectural project located in Chicago, Illinois. It focuses on the concept of flexible and communal living, presenting an alternative to traditional housing configurations. The design reflects an ideology that promotes shared experiences while allowing individual residents to maintain autonomy within their spaces.

The project incorporates seamless transitions between private and public areas, fostering interaction among residents while accommodating varying household functions such as cooking, working, and socializing. The use of movable elements, termed "Nomadic Apparatuses," adds a level of adaptability that is not typically found in standard residential designs. These elements allow for the reconfiguration of space based on the changing needs of the inhabitants, demonstrating a commitment to dynamic living environments.

Innovative Design Approaches

A defining characteristic of "The Domestic Nomad" is its emphasis on flexible space utilization. Each floor is strategically designed to serve multiple purposes. The ground floor serves as communal space, encompassing workshops and social areas, while upper levels provide personal living quarters. This layered approach not only optimizes space but also encourages a community feel, allowing for both individual retreat and collective engagement.

The integration of natural elements into the design is another aspect that distinguishes this project. A vertical greenhouse serves as both a recreational area and a source of food, reinforcing the connection between indoor and outdoor environments. The use of glass throughout the design creates transparency, providing residents with uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape while maximizing natural light.

Sustainable strategies are also central to the architectural concept. The incorporation of energy-efficient materials and climate-responsive features addresses the environmental impact of urban living. Elements such as shading devices and careful window placement help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy consumption.

Technical Details

The material palette includes reinforced concrete for structural stability, alongside wood and aluminum for aesthetic and functional purposes. These materials are chosen not only for their durability but also for their capacity to create a warm yet contemporary living environment. The architectural sections and plans reveal careful consideration of circulation and functional zoning, optimizing the user experience within the space.

Overall, "The Domestic Nomad" exemplifies a holistic approach to modern living in urban settings, addressing both individual needs and community dynamics. To gain deeper insights into the project's architectural ideas and principles, be sure to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs that provide a comprehensive view of this innovative endeavor.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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