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Plywood Modules for Flexible Living in Compact Spaces

Authors:
Maret Lauranne, Manon Cochereau
Plywood Modules for Flexible Living in Compact Spaces
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Constructed from plywood and wooden slabs, this modular living solution emphasizes adaptability through interchangeable wall units, allowing for personalized spaces that cater to evolving residential needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed for urban contexts to maximize limited space.
02
Utilizes prefabricated wall modules for quick assembly and customization.
03
Incorporates corner modules that serve dual purposes for storage and greenery.
04
Each wall unit can adapt to specific resident needs over time.
05
Integrates a Murphy bed to optimize floor space in the living area.

The Puzzle Block project introduces a modular living system that redefines residential design by placing essential functions within adaptable wall units. This innovative approach creates a flexible living space, allowing users to adjust their environment according to their changing needs. The project is designed for urban settings where space is limited, addressing the challenges of compact living while promoting a more personalized approach to home life.

Modular Composition

The structure utilizes wooden slabs and wooden posts, following a prefabricated construction method. Each wooden slab is 5.6 by 5.6 meters. The walls are made of two layers: an inhabited layer for living and an outer coat that can be adapted to different climates. The inhabited wall stands three meters high and is 90 centimeters deep, creating enough space for important furniture like desks, beds, and kitchen counters.

Functional Modules

Four core modules define the design: the Eatery, Chilling Nest, Couple's Cocoon, and Bathe & Care. The Eatery serves as a compact kitchen, featuring a foldable dining table that enhances usability. The Chilling Nest functions as a relaxation space with a bench that can turn into a guest bed, allowing for multiple uses. The Couple's Cocoon includes a Murphy bed that saves floor space when folded up and has a dressing area for clothing. The Bathe & Care module combines a shower and toilet in a small footprint, ensuring all necessary elements are close at hand.

User Adaptability

The design supports adaptability, enabling users to change their living space as needs evolve. Households can add new modules for specific purposes, including children’s rooms, work areas, or places for entertainment. This modular aspect allows for personalization and encourages a sense of community among users. A family can transition from a compact studio to a multi-functional home over time, reflecting their lifestyle choices.

Aesthetic Integration

Design details enhance the overall intent to combine practicality with visual appeal. Corner modules provide additional storage or plant shelves, drawing attention away from the compactness of the living area. The arrangement of these modules promotes a warm atmosphere, blending functionality with a pleasing living experience. Such thoughtful integration creates a home that is both usable and inviting.

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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.

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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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