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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
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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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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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Competition organisers

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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