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Puzzle Shaped Glass Wall Enhances Compact Living with Integrated Tree

Authors:
Media Abdileildaghi, Guenyoung Jung
Puzzle Shaped Glass Wall Enhances Compact Living with Integrated Tree
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A puzzle-shaped glass wall seamlessly moves to create flexible spaces around a central tree, enabling a compact living environment designed for two occupants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Retractable furniture allows for efficient use of space.
02
A central tree enhances air quality and provides natural aesthetics.
03
The glass ceiling offers ample natural light in the elevated area.
04
A spiral staircase wraps around the tree for vertical circulation.
05
The moving glass wall creates adaptable room configurations.

Hidden Rooms is designed to provide a living space for two occupants, focusing on adaptability and efficient use of space. Located in a compact urban setting, the design allows users to modify their surroundings for different activities such as resting, working, and enjoying leisure time. The concept emphasizes reconfigurability, which is essential for urban living.

Innovative Furniture Solutions

The design incorporates retractable furniture, specifically a bed and desk that can rise from the ground. This thoughtful approach addresses the varying needs of the occupants while keeping the living area uncluttered when these pieces are not in use. The retraction of furniture helps create a minimalist feel and maximizes the available space, an important consideration in small living environments.

Natural Elements

A key feature of the space is the presence of a tree. This element serves more than just an aesthetic purpose; it also helps improve air quality and enriches the indoor environment. The tree establishes a connection to the outdoors, promoting a sense of well-being and calmness in the confined urban context. Its inclusion adds character to the design and enhances the overall atmosphere inside.

Spatial Flexibility

Access to an elevated area is provided by a spiral staircase that wraps around the tree. This area is dedicated to activities that promote mindfulness, such as yoga or meditation. The elevated space benefits from light filtering through a glass ceiling, which creates an open feel and enhances the experience for users.

The "Puzzle Shaped Moving Glass Wall" is another notable feature, allowing for flexible use of the space. This wall can be repositioned, enabling various configurations depending on the occupants' needs throughout the day. The design encourages interaction and adaptability, catering to both solitary moments and social gatherings.

Overall, Hidden Rooms emphasizes functionality and the integration of natural light. Even within a limited footprint, each design element has been carefully chosen to ensure a practical and enriching living experience. The result is a modern take on urban living that meets the demands of contemporary life.

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Enter an open architecture
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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

`
Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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