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Transformable Living Spaces With Plywood Elements and Glass Facade in Urban Concepción

Authors:
Víctor Lobos, Daniela Meyer, Ana Canessa
Transformable Living Spaces With Plywood Elements and Glass Facade in Urban Concepción

Project in-detail

With its adaptable plywood furniture systems and expansive glass facade, this compact residence seamlessly integrates multifunctional living within the vibrant urban context of Concepción.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project utilizes a three-meter-wide footprint to maximize urban space efficiency.
02
Custom-built plywood furniture integrates seamlessly with the living environment, enhancing flexibility.
03
Large glass panels provide abundant natural light while maintaining a strong visual connection to the outdoors.
04
The inventive vertical organization separates public and private areas without sacrificing openness.
05
Sustainable materials are prioritized, emphasizing the use of local resources and reducing environmental impact.
The Furniture House in Concepción, Chile, is a residential project designed by INFIL Architecture that exemplifies a thoughtful approach to urban living within a compact footprint. This architectural endeavor responds directly to the challenges faced in densely populated areas, prioritizing flexibility, functionality, and the intelligent use of space. With a width of just three meters and a total area of approximately 25 square meters, the project effectively showcases how innovative design can meet the contemporary demands of urban dwellings.

This project represents a shift toward integrating furniture and architectural elements, resulting in a harmonious blend of structural and interior design. By using a space-efficient layout, the design evokes a sense of openness while making the most of its limited dimensions. The Furniture House is not merely a shelter; it is a versatile living environment that adapts to the changing needs of its residents. The idea of combining living, working, and leisure spaces into one cohesive unit reflects a modern perspective on urban lifestyles, where flexibility is essential.

Key elements of the design include a vertical organization that separates public and private areas, allowing for a logical flow throughout the home. A well-thought-out arrangement ensures that each space serves multiple functions, allowing for efficient use of every square meter. Large windows strategically placed throughout the house promote natural light and ventilation, enhancing the indoor atmosphere and connecting the inhabitants with the outdoors. This careful consideration of environmental factors is integral to the overall design philosophy, emphasizing sustainable living practices.

The materiality of the Furniture House further elevates its architectural integrity. The use of plywood for built-in furniture and cabinetry not only provides durability but also offers an aesthetic appeal that resonates with contemporary design trends. Glass features prominently in the large windows, bridging the gap between the interior and the surrounding landscape, while brick is employed in the facade and structural elements, lending both warmth and stability. Steel components serve as essential structural elements, ensuring the building's robustness and modernity. Such material choices reflect a commitment to quality and sustainability while enhancing the home's visual appeal.

One of the unique design approaches of the Furniture House is its emphasis on interactive furniture systems. The incorporation of removable and transformable furniture allows residents to adapt their living space as needed, whether for a cozy family gathering or a productive work session. This adaptability not only minimizes clutter but creates a living environment that feels more expansive and livable.

The project also engages with its urban context, demonstrating an understanding of the community it inhabits. By addressing both the immediate needs of its occupants and the broader neighborhood dynamics, the Furniture House serves as a potential model for future residential projects in similar settings. The design encourages a sustainable lifestyle through smart space utilization, natural lighting, and efficient material use, reinforcing the notion that architecture can contribute positively to urban living.

For those with an interest in architecture, the Furniture House serves as an insightful case study in innovative residential design. Its architectural plans reveal intricate details that showcase the thought process behind the spatial arrangement, while architectural sections illustrate the building's interaction with light and space. Additionally, exploring the architectural designs presents opportunities to understand the interplay between functionality and aesthetics. Engage with the project's presentation to delve deeper into its architectural ideas and witness firsthand how this design exemplifies contemporary responses to urban living challenges.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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