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Triple-Glazed Windows and Flexible Spaces in a Compact Eco-Friendly Home

Author:
Movila Daniel
Triple-Glazed Windows and Flexible Spaces in a Compact Eco-Friendly Home
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With triple-glazed windows and a retractable workspace, the design integrates eco-friendly features within a compact 25-square-meter home that supports a sustainable lifestyle for modern professionals.
5 key facts about this project
01
Flexible furniture adapts to changing needs within the compact layout.
02
Triple-glazed windows enhance energy efficiency and natural light penetration.
03
A retractable workspace accommodates remote work for two occupants.
04
The design promotes a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
05
Sustainable features include large water tanks and solar panels for off-grid living.

The NoMan initiative presents a compact design that redefines modern living for a young professional couple, rooted in ecological responsibility and sustainability. Covering an area of 25 square meters, the concept encourages a lifestyle that is closely tied to nature. It views human dwellings as borrowed spaces, promoting an approach to living that is both practical and mindful of the environment.

Spatial Efficiency

The design emphasizes the effective use of space through multifunctional elements. The upper bed not only serves as a sleeping area but also acts as a backrest for a convertible couch. This sofa can be transformed into a fully functional bed, allowing the area to adapt to various daily activities. The approach highlights the importance of flexibility in contemporary living.

Retractable Workspace

Another key feature is the retractable workspace, which caters to the needs of modern professionals. This space is designed to accommodate two users at the same time, enabling them to work comfortably in their home. This focus on functionality addresses the changing nature of work and living, making it a suitable environment for a busy lifestyle.

Environmental Integration

Integrating with the natural environment is a significant aspect of the design. The terrace and strategically placed glazed windows promote a smooth transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. This connection emphasizes the importance of natural interactions in daily life, encouraging residents to engage with their surroundings.

Sustainable Practices

Material choices prioritize thermal efficiency and comfort, particularly through the use of triple-glazed windows. These windows improve energy conservation by providing better insulation and allowing ample daylight. This aligns with passive design principles, creating a comfortable indoor climate while supporting environmental goals.

The self-sufficiency of the dwelling is enhanced by features like large water tanks and solar panels located on the southern slope. These elements support an off-grid lifestyle, catering to basic energy needs. The design culminates in a thoughtful residential experience that fosters a close relationship with the surrounding environment.

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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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