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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 Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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