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Retractable Living: a Compact Home with Integrated Rainwater Harvesting

Authors:
Giulia Fasoli, Flavia Renzi
Retractable Living: a Compact Home with Integrated Rainwater Harvesting
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With a retractable bed and a rainwater harvesting system, this compact home prioritizes efficient use of space and sustainability in its design while accommodating the needs of modern living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Retractable bed design allows for efficient use of space.
02
Rainwater harvesting system integrated beneath the floor.
03
Lofted sleeping areas maximize vertical living space.
04
Energy autonomy achieved through adjustable photovoltaic panel.
05
Wooden construction enhances sustainability and mobility.

The HOPE Tiny House demonstrates a modern approach to off-grid living, focusing on sustainable design and efficient use of space. With measurements of 6.60 meters long and 2.50 meters wide, it provides a total of 20 square meters of living space for up to four people. The design emphasizes practicality and environmental considerations, suitable for various lifestyles and settings.

Spatial Organization

The layout effectively organizes the interior spaces, allowing for multiple functions within a compact area. It features a small relaxation spot, a kitchen that can be separated from the living area with double sliding doors, a three-element bathroom, and a storage room. This design allows residents to adapt their living environment, enhancing comfort and usability in everyday life.



Loft Design

Two lofted sleeping areas are cleverly integrated into the structure. One loft features a single bed that can also serve as a study space, while the other loft includes a double bed for privacy. This vertical design takes advantage of limited floor space, promoting both communal living and individual retreat in a small setting.



Sustainable Features

The framework is predominantly made of wood, aligning with a commitment to sustainability. Additionally, a rainwater collection system captures water in tanks beneath the floor, effectively utilizing available resources. Energy needs are addressed with an adjustable photovoltaic panel alongside an air heat pump system, providing heating and cooling to maintain comfort throughout the year.



Design Detailing

Attention to practical details enhances the overall functionality of the home. A standout feature is the retractable bed hidden in the kitchen, neatly stored under a shelf table to reduce clutter. This thoughtful integration of everyday elements showcases how efficiency can be seamlessly woven into the fabric of living spaces, contributing to a home that accommodates modern lifestyles while honoring ecological values.

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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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