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Movable Walls and Corrugated Surfaces in Compact Living Solutions

Authors:
Kelvin Chan, Cheng Leong, Simon Sit, Jessie Wan
Movable Walls and Corrugated Surfaces in Compact Living Solutions

Project in-detail

Movable walls create versatile living environments within a compact layout, utilizing corrugated surfaces and thoughtful insulation to enhance functionality for couples in high-density urban settings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Movable walls allow for flexible space configurations tailored to daily activities.
02
Corrugated metal surfaces enhance weather resistance while maintaining a lightweight structure.
03
Integrated insulation improves energy efficiency within a compact living footprint.
04
Design accommodates diverse zones, including a private workspace and workout area.
05
Utilizes a wall track system for smooth transitions between living arrangements.

The project addresses the challenges of creating efficient living spaces in high-density urban environments, particularly in Hong Kong. With a growing population and limited land, effective solutions for small living areas are increasingly needed. The design introduces a concept built around flexibility and adaptability, aiming to improve the living experience for couples. It encourages the use of space in a way that accounts for both privacy and community.

Movable Walls

At the heart of the design are movable walls, which allow for different arrangements in limited living areas. Each of the four walls can be adjusted based on various activities throughout the day. This feature enables residents to customize their space according to their needs, enhancing the functionality of small areas. The ability to reposition these walls supports not only practical use but also personal interactions, creating a balance between individual space and communal living.

Interior Layout

The design incorporates essential zones that cover a wide range of daily activities. These include a kitchen, living space, bathroom, dining area, private working space, and a workout area. This setup ensures that the different needs of residents are met while also allowing for smooth movement within the compact footprint. The layout encourages a lifestyle that adapts to changing routines, allowing inhabitants to make the most out of their limited space.

Material Palette

A thoughtful selection of materials supports the project’s goals of durability and efficiency. The design features corrugated metal sheets for exterior protection against the elements, while waterproofing layers maintain the structure's integrity. Insulation plays a crucial role as well, with options like rigid thermal insulation and spray foam thermal insulation enhancing energy conservation. A timber frame, paired with plywood sheathing and cladding, provides necessary strength while contributing to the overall aesthetic of the living environment.

Functional Elements

The design utilizes a wall track system, which enables the walls to move smoothly, further increasing the adaptability of the interior space. Additionally, incorporating battery storage improves the practical functionality of the unit, allowing residents to manage energy use effectively. These elements demonstrate an understanding of how modern living can adapt to urban challenges, offering a manageable approach to recreating familiar comforts in compact settings.

The arrangement of spaces creates a design that evolves with the needs of its users. It blends functionality with comfort, offering a practical solution for living in a crowded city where space is at a premium.

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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
competition now

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