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Vertical Living Spaces with Smart Algae Curtain and Plywood Features

Authors:
Muhammad Aqil Mohd Amran, Muhammad Haziq Yahya, Nafisah Ezam
Vertical Living Spaces with Smart Algae Curtain and Plywood Features
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Incorporating a smart algae curtain and compact vertical furniture, the design offers flexible living environments for young professionals navigating the challenges of urban housing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular living units allow for easy reconfiguration based on user needs.
02
A smart algae curtain enhances air quality while providing food and aesthetic value.
03
Compact vertical furniture maximizes storage and minimizes floor space usage.
04
Plywood panels contribute to both structural integrity and lightweight design.
05
Integrated features cater specifically to the lifestyle of urban young professionals.

"Micro-Eutrophication" is situated in urban China and responds to the housing challenges faced by young professionals. With increasing economic pressures, the design seeks to offer small, flexible living spaces that can adapt to the needs of its users. This approach reflects a growing desire for balance in life, particularly among those influenced by the "lying flat" movement. The project incorporates modular elements, allowing residents to customize their living arrangements and live more comfortably in a fast-paced environment.

Adaptive Modularity

The project focuses on modularity through a careful layout that allows units to be assembled and detached easily. This design creates a customized living experience, maximizing the use of space in urban settings. Each unit can shift to fulfill various functions, serving as a workspace, dining area, or resting space. This adaptability is crucial for meeting the diverse needs of today’s urban lifestyles.

Efficient Spatial Organization

At the heart of the design is compact vertical furniture that minimizes the use of floor space while maximizing storage. These pieces are designed to reach up to the full height of the room, providing ample storage without occupying much room. This strategy fosters a sense of openness, addressing the cramped conditions often found in urban apartments. As a result, the living environment becomes more inviting and functional.

Sustainable Features

A notable aspect of the design is the smart algae curtain, which integrates environmental benefits directly into the living space. This feature not only enhances the look of the room but also serves important roles in providing food and cleaning the air. By bringing nature into the urban setting, the design aligns with modern efforts that highlight sustainability and improve well-being for residents.

Material Selection

The materials chosen for "Micro-Eutrophication" reflect practical design choices. Plywood panels serve as the basis for the modular furniture, providing a balance of weight and strength. Metal sheet roofing adds durability to the structure, while the steel frame gives it necessary support and flexibility for various configurations.

The overall design blends modular elements with sustainable solutions, creating a living environment that emphasizes comfort and ecological awareness. The inclusion of innovative features supports a lifestyle that values both functionality and well-being.

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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?

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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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