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Mirror Coating Enhances Compact Living Experience in Small Footprint Home

Author:
Ignacio Uliarte
Mirror Coating Enhances Compact Living Experience in Small Footprint Home
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A reflective mirror coating enhances the sense of space in this compact living unit, which effectively combines a multifunctional kitchen, innovative storage solutions, and sustainable features for modern residential needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective mirror coating enhances spatial perception and light within the unit.
02
Modular design supports rapid construction and flexibility for various uses.
03
Compact kitchen includes a combi oven for efficiency in small spaces.
04
Integrated storage solutions maximize functionality without increasing footprint.
05
Sustainable features include greywater reuse systems and solar energy options.

The Tiny House project illustrates a practical approach to modern living, designed to meet the needs of people in increasingly crowded areas. It functions as a flexible space suitable for permanent homes, vacation properties, or temporary housing solutions. The design revolves around a modular structure that measures 22.5 m², making efficient use of limited space while maintaining essential living functions.

MODULAR ARRANGEMENT

The layout utilizes a Plug and Play concept, allowing for straightforward construction and adaptability to various settings. The space is divided into three main areas: a living-kitchen area, a bathroom, and a bedroom. Each section is distinct but interconnected, enhancing the overall movement within the house. This arrangement promotes a balance between privacy in personal areas and openness in communal spaces, catering to the demands of contemporary lifestyles.

REFLECTIVE ELEMENTS

An interesting feature of the design is the use of a mirror coating along the walls. This reflective treatment plays an important role in the design by increasing the sense of space and light within the interior. It creates a lively atmosphere, making the compact area feel larger and more inviting. The choice of this treatment emphasizes both aesthetics and the functional needs of the space.

KITCHEN EFFICIENCY

In the kitchen area, functionality is a key focus. Important appliances, such as a two-plate stove, a combi oven, and a refrigerator located under the sink, are arranged carefully. This organization facilitates easy movement and cooking, showing that even small kitchens can be efficient and user-friendly. Thoughtful planning ensures that daily activities can be carried out comfortably in this compact setting.

CLEVER STORAGE SOLUTIONS

The bedroom includes practical storage options, featuring a double bed with six drawers concealed underneath. This feature maximizes the use of space while providing necessary storage. Other functional aspects include reading lamps, charging ports, and a desk at the foot of the bed. These elements allow the space to adapt to various activities, supporting both relaxation and work needs without taking up additional room.

The bathroom is designed with a wet area that includes a shower behind two glass doors, which can be sealed to maintain privacy. An upper window allows fresh air and natural light into the space, enhancing the overall comfort of this compact home.

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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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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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