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Magnetic Levitation and Truss-Frame Living in a Mobile Sphere

Author:
Alessandro Belgiorno-nettis
Magnetic Levitation and Truss-Frame Living in a Mobile Sphere

Project in-detail

Equipped with magnetic levitation technology and a truss-frame structure, the mobile sphere redefines residential living by seamlessly transitioning between compact and spacious configurations.
5 key facts about this project
01
Equipped with millions of suckers for enhanced surface mobility.
02
Utilizes magnetic levitation to maintain a level interior surface.
03
The design can separate and expand into a larger living platform.
04
Operable furniture allows for flexible spatial arrangements.
05
Inspired by the adaptability of cephalopod mollusks.

CEPHALOPOD is a design that combines technology with the idea of mobility in living spaces. Located in an unspecified contemporary environment, it functions as a micro home that adapts to different surroundings. The design seeks to address the limitations of traditional domesticity, responding instead to a world where people are increasingly mobile.

Mobility and Structure

The design features two primary components: an external sphere with a truss frame and a smaller internal sphere. The outer sphere is equipped with millions of suckers that allow it to roll smoothly across various surfaces. This unique method of movement is based on how a rolling ball operates, granting the ability to navigate different landscapes effectively.

Stability and Adaptability

Inside, the internal sphere uses magnetic levitation technology to provide a level living surface at all times. This is important for maintaining comfort and stability within the mobile home, even as it moves. This design element helps resolve some challenges related to mobile living by ensuring that occupants can reside in a safe and stable environment regardless of external conditions.

Transformative Design

When it arrives at a destination, the two spheres can separate and extend outward to create a larger area for living. This ability allows the internal space to function as various rooms, such as a dining area or sleeping area, all within one compact design. The space also includes a kitchen and bathroom, addressing essential needs and reinforcing the suitability of this design for everyday life.

Technological Integration

The design draws upon ideas from various industries, including automotive and aerospace. This cross-disciplinary approach helps enhance both the strength and performance of the structure. Additionally, inspiration from cephalopod mollusks adds a layer of adaptability, reflecting how these creatures efficiently navigate their environments.

Operable furniture located within the internal sphere allows for better use of the space, enabling occupants to configure their living area based on their needs. This design detail emphasizes the balance between functionality and innovation, showcasing how modern living can be both practical and flexible.

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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

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