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Screw Piles and Polyethylene Pipes in Compact Living Solutions

Authors:
Thomas Garofalo, Marco Frassetto, Diana Carolina Trejos Bravo, Giulia Negri
Screw Piles and Polyethylene Pipes in Compact Living Solutions
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Utilizing screw piles and a polyethylene water management system, the design offers a compact, self-sufficient living space that adapts to various environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes screw piles for anchoring without invasive ground excavation.
02
Incorporates a polyethylene pipe system for efficient water storage and passive heating.
03
Features foldaway furniture for adaptable interior space usage.
04
Employs thin-film solar modules for complete energy self-sufficiency.
05
Designed as a flexible, off-grid solution for diverse environmental settings.

The WILD CORE SLEEPING PODS project is an innovative solution for minimal impact living. Designed to efficiently utilize a compact area of under 20 m², the structure combines essential elements such as storage, a bathroom, and a sleeping space. The focus is on self-sufficiency, reducing dependence on traditional utility services. This design offers a modern response to the challenge of sustainable living while fitting into a variety of natural settings.

Spatial Organization

The interior layout puts flexibility at the forefront. A functional core groups utility spaces together, allowing for a larger main area that can serve multiple purposes. Retractable and foldaway furniture is integrated into the design, which enables users to adapt the space according to their needs. This thoughtful arrangement supports a range of activities within a limited footprint.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is a key principle behind the design. Thin-film solar modules produce renewable energy, supplying power to the pod's electrical systems and heat pump. This method reduces energy costs while providing reliable heating and cooling. Additionally, a water management system utilizing polyethylene pipes offers storage for a week’s worth of clean water. This system also benefits from passive heating techniques, ensuring an efficient approach to water use.

Construction Methodology

The construction process is designed for efficiency and minimal environmental disruption. The structure is anchored by screw piles, which are installed without significant excavation. This allows for fast installation and straightforward removal if necessary. The assembly features paired wooden pillars and prefabricated panels, making the building process quick while maintaining a focus on sustainability.

Design Integration

A standout feature of the design is its adaptability to different environments. The sleeping pod can be placed in a variety of natural settings without harming the landscape. Large glass doors open to an outdoor deck, creating a strong connection between the inside and outside. This design choice promotes fresh air and natural light, enhancing the overall living experience. The structure emphasizes a conscious relationship with nature, offering a practical solution for modern living.

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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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