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Rotating Glass Box With Multifunctional Column for Compact Living

Authors:
Megan Blaine, Selena Huang
Rotating Glass Box With Multifunctional Column for Compact Living

Project in-detail

A rotating glass box supported by a multifunctional column optimizes views and natural ventilation in a small footprint, serving as a versatile living space that adapts to its surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure rotates to optimize light and ventilation.
02
A single multifunctional column supports the entire design.
03
Rainwater is collected through concealed gutters integrated into the roof.
04
The compact interior can be reconfigured for various uses.
05
Thin flexible solar panels cover the roof for energy efficiency.

PIVOT is a modern design that offers an innovative take on compact living. Set in rugged and beautiful landscapes, the structure aims to provide a comfortable home while minimizing its impact on the environment. The main idea behind the design is a rotating mechanism that enhances daily activities and keeps a strong connection to nature. This approach challenges traditional concepts of living spaces and urban planning.

Design Concept and Structure

The project consists of a two-layer system with a central glass box that allows for natural airflow and provides unobstructed views. This feature creates a bond between the inside and outside areas, letting residents appreciate nature from within their home. Surrounding this glass box is a shell that extends outward and is mounted on a single multifunctional column. This unique setup enables the entire building to rotate, allowing occupants to reposition the structure in response to sunlight and weather, which improves comfort and enjoyment.

Spatial Organization

Inside, PIVOT is designed for flexibility, showcasing an efficient use of space. A central station can move and includes a folding couch and an expandable table, suitable for sleeping, eating, or working. Tracks are built into the floor to make it easy to slide and rotate this unit, enabling residents to change their living area according to their needs. This adaptable feature transforms the home into a lively environment that supports various activities.

Sustainable Features

Sustainability is a key aspect of the design, with a range of features that help reduce environmental impact. The roof is equipped with thin, flexible solar panels, generating renewable energy to meet the small building's needs. Additionally, a rainwater collection system is built into the roof with hidden gutters to manage water efficiently. Wastewater is treated and returned to the earth through a leach field, which complements the overall commitment to ecological responsibility.

Unique Design Elements

The small footprint of PIVOT is carefully designed to lessen its effect on local vegetation, reinforcing a pleasant balance between the built environment and nature. Separate areas within the structure allow for different functions while ensuring privacy and opportunities for social interaction. The ability to rotate the building not only improves user experience but also enhances engagement with the changing light and views outside. Overall, the design highlights a thoughtful marriage of form and function, responding to the practical demands of modern living.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
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