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Folding House Design Utilizing Steel and Glass Above Water

Authors:
Adil ahmet bahadır Sezer, Bartu Lokumcu, Selcan Ezgi Şen
Folding House Design Utilizing Steel and Glass Above Water

Project in-detail

A folding house supported by a steel framework and enclosed with triple-glazed glass offers flexible living above water, addressing both sustainability and user customization.
5 key facts about this project
01
Folding furniture system allows for customizable interior layouts.
02
Designed to operate off-grid using hybrid photovoltaic thermal collectors.
03
Utilizes seawater purification methods for sustainable water management.
04
Features a steel framework for structural stability and durability.
05
Located above the Marmara Sea to address local environmental challenges.

The design presents a flexible folding house that can be placed on land or above water. It is particularly suitable for locations like the Marmara Sea, where environmental issues impact the design choices made. The main goal is to create a residential space that adapts to various living requirements while offering customization options for its users.

Design Concept

At the heart of the design is a folding furniture system that can be controlled through an application. This allows users to choose from different furniture arrangements, tailoring the interior to their specific needs. Fixed elements are minimized to wet areas and storage, creating an open layout that can easily change according to daily activities and preferences. This approach emphasizes user empowerment in managing their living environment.

Sustainability Measures

Energy efficiency is a key focus of the design, with off-grid systems supporting self-sufficient living. Hybrid photovoltaic thermal collectors generate electricity and provide hot water for the heating system. Such designs promote the use of renewable energy, helping to reduce the impact on the environment. The systems employed reflect a conscious effort to adopt sustainable practices in everyday living.

Water Management Solutions

An effective water management strategy is also integrated into the design. It utilizes seawater purification methods to maintain a sustainable water supply. Greywater generated from daily activities is captured and reused, addressing the logistical challenges of living near water bodies. This solution reflects an understanding of the ecological concerns associated with areas like the Marmara Sea, where water quality is a significant issue.

Structural Components

The construction incorporates a steel framework for stability, and triple-glazed low-emissivity glass is used to improve thermal performance. These materials not only enhance energy efficiency but also allow natural light to fill the spaces. This connection to the outdoors is vital, as it creates a more pleasant living atmosphere while considering the local climate.

The unique folding design of the furniture provides great flexibility, enabling various living arrangements that cater to different lifestyles. Each configuration promotes efficient use of space, ensuring comfort and functionality in everyday life.

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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
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