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Reflective Surfaces and Rotating Spaces in Compact Urban Living

Author:
Riccardo Nadotti
Reflective Surfaces and Rotating Spaces in Compact Urban Living
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A rotating central box with a mirror facade creates flexible living spaces in a compact urban environment, accommodating diverse functions while maximizing natural light and privacy.
5 key facts about this project
01
A rotating box design enhances spatial flexibility and user interaction.
02
Mirror facade creates reflections that alter perceptions of the living environment.
03
Automated water connection stations increase functionality and convenience.
04
Curtains stored within the box provide adjustable privacy options.
05
Solar panels integrated for energy efficiency and sustainable living.

"RULE IT" is a response to the challenges of living in smaller homes, a situation that has become more pronounced due to the recent global pandemic. It addresses both the limitations of space and the importance of flexibility in how people interact with their environments. In an urban setting where every square meter matters, the design creates options for residents to personalize their space while ensuring functionality.

Design and Functionality

At the center of the design is a box that can rotate on four sides of the house. This feature is controlled by a mobile app, which allows residents to change how they use the space. The rotation is supported by a wireless energy system hidden in the ceiling, working in a way similar to how smartphone chargers operate. This innovative solution allows for custom living arrangements while maintaining connections necessary for utilities such as water.

Spatial Arrangement and Privacy

The layout reduces the available space to 25 square meters, yet it cleverly organizes areas for different uses. Privacy is well thought out; a system of curtains that can be pulled from the box provides residents with the option to create distinct workspaces. This approach enables a balance between open common areas and private zones, catering to modern lifestyles that require flexibility.

Material Considerations

Materials chosen for the project focus on sustainability. Important components include solar panels that harness energy from the sun, polyethylene pipes responsible for water supply and grey water management, and ceramic filters that ensure clean water. The inclusion of an electric heating boiler and a recycling unit with a thermostatic mixer supports an efficient use of resources in everyday living.

The exterior features a mirror coating that expands perceptions of space. This reflective surface adapts to its surroundings, capturing changes in light and offering a lively interaction with nature throughout the day. Rather than simply occupying space, the design engages with it, pushing the boundaries of what compact living can offer.

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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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