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Mobile Wooden Cubes Enhance Compact Living Through Geothermal Efficiency

Authors:
Amir Moradi, Hadi Daliraqaei
Mobile Wooden Cubes Enhance Compact Living Through Geothermal Efficiency
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Utilizing movable wooden cubes and a rainwater collection system, the design adapts to seasonal changes while maximizing energy efficiency in a compact living space for two occupants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Movable wooden cubes allow for flexible interior configurations.
02
Photovoltaic panels generate renewable energy for heating.
03
Rainwater harvesting system aids in resource efficiency.
04
Geothermal boreholes enhance energy conservation.
05
Modular glazing surfaces promote natural light and connection to the outdoors.

The design project 5² is located in a contemporary context that explores the concept of compact living. This dwelling uses a thoughtful arrangement of prefabricated wooden cubes to create spaces that serve the needs of two people. The overall idea focuses on balancing privacy with shared living, allowing residents to adjust and change their environment based on personal or seasonal needs.

Sustainability Features

5² incorporates several sustainable elements that lower its environmental impact. Solar panels are placed on both mobile cubes, providing renewable energy for heating. This helps to reduce dependence on traditional energy sources. Below the wooden deck, a battery stores energy for later use, ensuring continuous access to power. Additionally, a rainwater collection system is integrated into the roof design, enabling the reuse of water for household tasks. This approach emphasizes efficient resource management.

Spatial Dynamics

Flexibility is a key component in the design of 5². The movable wooden cubes allow for various layout configurations, enabling occupants to reshape their living space to suit different seasons or personal preferences. During warmer months, the arrangement can be more open to enhance airflow, while in winter, a more compact form can help retain heat. This adaptability creates a comfortable living environment and promotes energy efficiency year-round.

Material Application

The choice of materials plays an important role in the overall design. Prefabricated wooden cubes make up the main structure, while large glazed surfaces bring light into the interior. These windows connect the inside spaces with the outdoor setting, fostering a sense of openness. The use of these materials supports both aesthetic qualities and functional needs inherent in a compact living space.

Movable wooden volumes glide along built-in sliding rails, creating a U-shaped pathway around the fixed core of the design. This allows residents to engage in the arrangement of their environment, actively shaping their experience.

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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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