The Winners!
ZERO EMISSION WONDERS - OFF THE GRID 2024
First Prize Winners
Fotios Gazepidis, Anna Chatziioannou
Greece
Fotis Gazepidis studied civil engineering, has a master's degree in construction analysis and design, is the reformer of the company and participates in all stages, while Anna Chatziioannou, is an MSc architect, studied at the National Technical University of Athens and she is responsible for the architectural design, interior design and supervision of all projects.
Introduction
Being partners in life and colleagues at work we know each other very well and cooperate with great chemistry. On a daily basis we run a family business called Gconstructions, which is mainly active in the field of residential building construction projects. It undertakes all stages of building development and more specifically: plot selection, design, construction and sales.
Fotis Gazepidis studied civil engineering, has a master's degree in construction analysis and design, is the reformer of the company and participates in all stages, while Anna Chatziioannou, is an MSc architect, studied at the National Technical University of Athens and she is responsible for the architectural design, interior design and supervision of all projects.
Our motivation to participate was that this competition faces perhaps the greatest challenges of our time. Depletion of natural resources, pollution of the planet, overpopulation and economic inequality are at the root of many problems nowadays. Therefore, sustainability is no longer a question of the future but a need of the present.
The architecture and design of houses play a catalytic role in shaping the future since, in addition to absorbing a large part of the energy consumed worldwide, resident houses also form the living of the people, resulting in them being largely responsible for global pollution.
With this competition, we are given the opportunity to propose solutions to these enormous challenges. To design a sustainable house that ensures a high quality of life in a limited space and with functions that promote a sustainable living model for humanity.
Design Concept
The Platform is a self-sustaining structure that was designed from the beginning to fit into the environment in which it was chosen to be located. Aesthetically, its design was inspired by Greek architectural culture and was placed in the right spot in order to serve its own goals. The structure was studied very carefully in order to satisfy the daily needs of two people in a very limited indoor space of 25sqm but at the same time considering the need for an outdoor vital living space for its residents. Sustainability was achieved by creating surplus through renewable energy sources exploitation, food production and water recycling, where AI technology and rotation both act as amplifiers for the optimum result, allowing off the grid living. The final and most important aim of “The Platform” is to promote community unity and by sharing surplus to create abundance.
Sustainable Design Integration
Sustainability was analysed holistically, in terms of energy, water and food as well. In this project, all three parameters are governed by a fraction where the numerator is “production and save” and the denominator is “consumption and waste”. The higher the result, the more sustainable the structure. Whatever the result, the platform’s 360o rotation and AI technology, function in combination as multipliers that maximize it to the optimum.
(↑ PRODUCTION AND SAVE)/(↓ CONSUMPTION AND WASTE) ×〖AI〗_TECH×Ꞧ◌= OPTIMUM RESULT
What makes the platform an innovative and distinctive project is that while it shares the demand of the time for limited space, at the same time it highlights the need for a vital outdoor space that is necessary for the quality of life of its residents. Also, the design of the project is such that it ensures that the whole structure space is utilized to the maximum extent, with functions of production and recycling of sustainable sources (energy, water, food), thus allowing its off-grid placement. Finally, the rotation and technology produce the desired result but without burdening the cost of construction and operation. All these features combined make the project beyond feasible and implementable, also innovative and able to contribute to a more sustainable future for residential architecture.
Creative Use of Space
When designing a small space, our main priority is the utilization of every sqm. We created a singular motion axis, around which all the functions of the space are lined up. With this design, none of the area is wasted for extra corridors and movements. The main corridor is parallel to the long side of the top view, and is connected to the entrance to the main space and the exit to the semi-outdoor space. Regarding its position on the y-axis, we positioned the corridor at the 3/4ths of the space, so it splits the spaces unevenly, and on the one side all the main functions are accommodated (sofa, WC, bed), while on the other side all the secondary, smaller functions are accommodated, such as storage spaces, the office and the shower.
The functions that are parallel and opposite each other with regard to the corridor interact with each other and operate as a unit. The corridor crosses four zones (kitchen, living room, bathroom and bedroom).
At the next stage, after we ensured space saving through the initial design, from a top view perspective, we thought that through the furniture we could create a polymorphic space, which could change throughout the day, depending on the user’s needs. This way, the space would be able to transform in order to serve more functions throughout the day and then go back to its initial form, for a more spacious and comfortable sense of the space. So, we created custom furniture, with surfaces that open, slide and fold up, based on the user’s needs.
Off-the-Grid Living Vision
The vision of off-grid living was succeeded by facing sustainability holistically and by maximising its results. Sustainability was examined, not only in term of energy but also in terms of food and water, with a request for independence from the grid. The fact that the effect from each parameter was reinforced by platform's 360ο rotation in combination with AI tech, which both function as amplifiers to optimum the outcome, guarantees for the maximum degree of freedom by the grid.
Specifically:
Energy production takes place through a wind generator, as well as a 14sqm surface of solar power panels placed on the roof in 15o slope. Through rotation, the panels track the sun and maximise their performance. Wind sensors detect wind direction and speed. AI Technology calculates the optimum energy production combination, and it rotates the platform accordingly. All these can increase energy production by 25% to 30%, resulting in an annual energy production of 10000kWh. At the same time, energy consumption is managed through passive energy design. Smart and energy efficient appliances, in combination with passive structural materials, are placed accordingly. Walls and windows with low U-values maintain internal temperature, green roof provides shadow from the summer sun and openings placed on the right spot permit air movement, natural ventilation and lighting. In case of severe weather conditions, the temperature is controlled by a high energy efficient heat pump. Finally, the platform rotates to exploit the desired effects (ex.: to catch a cool breeze on a hot summer day).
A 15sqm surface leisure garden with a 40cm effective depth allows the cultivation of organic vegetables and fruits, covering part of the couple’s diet. AI Technology could suggest planting according to water needs, water reserves, season, weather forecast etc. The platform’s rotation makes conditions ideal for the products’ growth. Part of the food waste is composted with leaves to make fertilizer or be reused, while packing materials are separated for easier recycling in four different material bins. Residents can exchange products and share food with the rest of the community.
Rainwater from garden and platform plus wastewater from domestic use (apart from toilet water) is recycled. All the pipes, excluding the toilet’s which discharges directly into the sewage, end up in a sewage treatment tank (capacity 750 litres) attached to the metal frame under the platform. After filtration, a pump pushes water into a storage tank placed on the platform (capacity 750 litres). Grey water from the heat pump and roof garden drainage ends up directly into the same water tank. Stored water can be used for gardening, cleaning, and cistern. A submersible water sensor controls water level and surplus discharges through a pipe and it either gets distributed to the communal gardens or it is used to water other residents’ crops.
Design Evolution
The whole concept is governed by three goals (sustainability, good life, social impact). Design started with a survey to find the most suitable location to serve them. The research was conducted by following reasonable steps, where parameters were decided, quantified and evaluated in order to drive us to the ideal location.
Appropriate location selection set the foundation for architectural design to satisfy the three goals. Ancient windmills, which appeared in Greek territory in the 12th century and served inhabitants’ needs by exploiting wind energy until the early 20th century, being very popular for artists and a landmark of Greek culture, became the inspiration of design since they perfectly combine aesthetic, sustainability and tradition.
The initial idea started with a rotated house that could track the sun for solar energy production. However, the necessity for an external vital living space transformed the rotated house into a rotated platform, where an external architectural zoning for a practical, active and comfortable life of the residents was designed. The platform can be rotated by the users accordingly, either regarding their needs or their desires.
What makes this project unique is the combination of existing techniques, popular materials and modern technologies in order to maximize production, minimize consumption and multiply result. Technically, the rotation was a challenge for the utilities since is not feasible all pipes and cables to occupy the unique center of rotation. Therefore, to achieve the connection of each structure to the communal network, it was decided that only the sewage will use the center. The connection between the fixed and rotated part occurs exactly at the core of the bearing that allows rotation. Electricity cables and water pipes decided to go through flexible tubes which are positioned purposely close to the center to avoid large displacements, while the platform rotates, no more than one complete circle (360 degrees) and turns back to avoid twisting the pipes and cables.
Community and Environmental Impact
What this project adds to the existing positive impact of a tiny house is that it takes into account the needs of its residents and enriches their lives with outdoor spaces, constructive sustainable activities, such as garden, and recreational areas. Also, in terms of community impact, the platform was designed not only to work off-grid but also to be able to connect with other similar structures creating an independent network.
Therefore, the advantages and benefits offered by this effort are that the concept "The Platform" extends to the whole range of basic needs (food, water, energy) and maximizes their result by combining two optimization parameters (rotation and AI technology) so that it can transit from sustainability to surplus. Also, the fact that the project can grow from a unit to a community network, where surplus can be distributed accordingly to its residents strengthening social ties, ensures that its design beyond sustainable and ecologically responsible suggest an appropriate living solution.
OPTIMUM RESULT - RESIDENTS NEEDS = SURPLUS
SURPLUS → SHARED TO COMMUNITY NEEDS
Reflections on Winning
It is a great honour!!! Even if we were really confident that our design concept was solid and well documented, we never imagined we could win the 1st prize award since we knew that the competition is highly competitive. Therefore, we are very proud and happy for this achievement and the recognition of our efforts gives us courage and strength to continue to set our architectural design goals higher.
If we have to share some of our thoughts that determined our design: In a world full of social inequalities, confrontations over the control of finite resources and with a humanity with an insatiable appetite for consumption and prosperity we must set the standards of sustainable construction design even higher, aiming for constructions that will not only be autonomous but that they can guarantee a surplus. The future sustainable architectural design beyond the objective measurable criteria such as the balance between production and consumption, must take into account social messages that promote the virtues and values of people, which the modern way of life desperately needs.
Second Prize Winners
Alicja Dobrowolska, Aleksander Siąkała & Weronika Toruch
Poland
Third Prize Winners
Aleksandra Forystek
U.S.
Aleksandra Forystek is a Chicago-based designer with a background in both Architecture and Interior Design. She leverages her expertise in these complementary fields through both teaching and professional practice. Currently, she balances her passion for educating the next generation of interior designers with the exploration of innovative spatial concepts through conceptual design projects.
Introduction
I am Aleksandra Forystek, a Chicago-based designer with a background in both Architecture and Interior Design. I leverage my expertise in these complementary fields through both teaching and professional practice. Currently, I balance my passion for educating the next generation of interior designers with the exploration of innovative spatial concepts through conceptual design projects.
Awards, Competitions and Publications:
2018 - University of Illinois Chicago - Faculty Choice Award - Best Undergraduate Project
2019 - University of Illinois Chicago - Faculty Choice Award - Best Undergraduate Project
2020 - KoozArch Magazine - Project Publication and Interview
2021 - University of Illinois Chicago - Pella Fellowship Prize for Best Undergraduate Project
2021 - AIA Chicago Foundation 2021 - Student Design Competition Nominee
2022 - Archisource - Drawing of The Year - Publication
2023 - Archisource - Drawing of The Year - Publication
2024 - IFDA 2024 - International Furniture Design Competition
2024 - Archiol - Zero Emission Wonders - Off The Grid Design
I'm particularly drawn to projects that allow for experimentation and exploration. The freedom to think outside the box and develop innovative design solutions is incredibly motivating. My current focus is on off-the-grid, sustainable living spaces. This realm excites me because it requires a creative approach to creating functional and comfortable environments with minimal environmental impact. The Zero Emission Wonders - Off The Grid Design competition provided the perfect platform to explore this concept – designing a small-scale dwelling where the occupants are directly impacted by the behavior and performance of the object itself.
Design Concept
This concept reimagines everyday objects as the inspiration for livable structures. It focuses on a specific object, like a pegboard, and translates its functional characteristics and modularity into architectural elements. These elements are then "domesticated" to serve the everyday needs of the occupants.
The resulting house functions as a large, modular object. It's movable, adaptable to changing needs, and allows for expansion. Similar to a pegboard, new living spaces can be added by incorporating additional components, enabling the house to grow or shrink organically. This transformation alters the form of the house, creating a dynamic and evolving living environment. The occupants actively participate in this transformation by manipulating the modular components. The house becomes a playful space where the residents can experiment and influence the form through their actions. This allows the house to evolve organically, reflecting the changing needs and desires of its inhabitants. This organic growth or shrinkage directly influences the form of the house, transforming it into a dynamic and evolving entity. Consequently, the occupants transcend the role of passive residents, becoming active participants in this transformative process.
This pegboard-inspired modular dwelling stands out with its innovative use of locally sourced bamboo, a renewable resource, and a flexible pegboard system for maximum space efficiency. Integrated rainwater harvesting and solar power create a self-sufficient home, while the modular design minimizes waste and adapts to changing needs. These features contribute to a sustainable future by promoting resource efficiency, circular economy principles, and inspiring eco-friendly living.
Sustainable Design Integration
Sustainability is paramount in our Off the Grid design. By prioritizing eco-friendly principles, we've created a truly self-sufficient dwelling. The use of locally sourced bamboo minimizes environmental impact, while the modular pegboard system optimizes space and reduces material waste. Integration of rainwater harvesting, and solar power eliminates reliance on traditional utilities, creating a truly off-grid lifestyle. The home's compact nature reduces land consumption and preserves natural habitats. This adaptable design not only meets the challenges of off-grid living but also serves as a model for sustainable residential architecture, promoting a harmonious relationship between humans and nature.
This innovative design offers a compelling vision for off-grid living. A modular pegboard system maximizes space, allowing for flexible configurations tailored to individual needs. Constructed with locally sourced bamboo, the dwelling minimizes environmental impact. Integrated rainwater harvesting and solar power ensure self-sufficiency. The modular design promotes adaptability and reduces waste, aligning with sustainable living principles. This harmonious blend of form and function creates a visually appealing and eco-conscious living space, empowering residents to connect with nature while enjoying modern comforts.
Creative Use of Space
The Peg Refuge maximizes its 37-square-meter footprint through innovative space utilization. By adapting the pegboard concept, the design achieves a dynamic and adaptable interior. Walls function as organizational tools, allowing for flexible room layouts and furniture arrangements. The modular wooden components transform into seats, bookshelves, and tables, optimizing space efficiency. The perforated design introduces versatility, enabling light penetration, ventilation, and privacy control. Plumbing and electrical systems are seamlessly integrated into the modular framework, further enhancing flexibility. This approach creates a multifunctional environment where every element serves multiple purposes, optimizing the limited square footage without compromising comfort or functionality. Essentially, the Peg Refuge demonstrates how intelligent design can transform a small space into a comfortable and versatile living area.
The pegboard-inspired tiny house redefines living by prioritizing flexibility and efficiency. Its core innovation is a modular pegboard system that allows for dynamic space configuration. Walls, furniture, and even utilities can be rearranged to suit changing needs, transforming the home into a versatile living space. Blurring traditional room divisions, the design creates multi-functional areas. A living space can effortlessly convert into a dining or sleeping area. Vertical space is maximized through perforated walls and floors, letting in natural light while optimizing floor area. By integrating nature through strategic window placement and the use of natural materials, the home fosters a strong connection to the outdoors. Sustainability is a key focus. Rainwater harvesting and solar power systems contribute to self-sufficiency and minimize environmental impact. This tiny home proves that comfort and functionality can coexist within a compact footprint, offering a model for sustainable and adaptable living.
Off-the-Grid Living Vision
The Peg Refuge offers a compelling vision of self-sufficient living. By prioritizing adaptability, resource efficiency, and environmental harmony, it challenges the reliance on grid-dependent structures.
Key to its sustainability is a modular design using locally sourced bamboo. This flexible system optimizes space, reduces material waste, and minimizes environmental impact. Rainwater harvesting eliminates dependency on external water sources while natural light and ventilation reduce energy consumption. The home's compact nature and integration of solar power further enhance energy efficiency.
By demonstrating that comfortable, functional living is possible without grid reliance, the Peg Refuge offers a blueprint for sustainable habitation. It inspires a shift towards more resilient and environmentally conscious lifestyles.
Design Evolution
Inspired by the pegboard's transformative potential, we envisioned a dwelling that could evolve with its inhabitants. Okinawa's natural beauty and unique climate influenced our design, leading to a structure that harmonizes with its surroundings. Using locally sourced bamboo, we created a modular pegboard system that defines flexible spaces. Perforated walls and ceilings allow light to filter through, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. Rainwater harvesting and solar power ensure self-sufficiency. The result is a living system that seamlessly blends with nature, offering comfort, adaptability, and a deep connection to the environment.
The Peg Refuge embodies sustainable living through innovative design. A modular pegboard system maximizes space and adaptability. Locally sourced bamboo reduces carbon footprint and supports local economies. The design harmonizes with the environment by incorporating natural elements, minimizing reliance on external resources. Perforated walls and floors optimize light, ventilation, and privacy. Rainwater harvesting and potential solar power systems demonstrate a commitment to self-sufficiency. This holistic approach creates a dwelling that is both environmentally responsible and human centered.
Community and Environmental Impact
The Peg Refuge is more than just a dwelling; it's a platform for individual empowerment and community well-being. Its modular design empowers residents to create personalized spaces, fostering a strong sense of ownership. The home's connection with nature enhances mental and physical well-being. By utilizing locally sourced materials and promoting sustainable practices, it fosters community engagement and environmental stewardship. Ultimately, the Peg Refuge aims to enrich lives and create a positive impact on the world.
The Peg Refuge embodies a holistic approach to sustainable living. Its modular design promotes adaptability and reduces waste by eliminating the need for major renovations. By utilizing locally sourced bamboo, the structure minimizes environmental impact and supports local economies. Rainwater harvesting conserves precious water resources, while natural light and ventilation reduce energy consumption. The design's integration with the natural environment fosters biodiversity and improves indoor air quality. Through these features, the Peg Refuge offers a model for sustainable and ecologically responsible living.
Reflections on Winning
Winning the Zero Emission Wonders - Off the Grid Design Competition is an immense honour. It's incredibly gratifying to see our vision of a sustainable, adaptable, and harmonious living space recognized on such a prestigious platform.
The Peg Refuge offers a compelling vision of how we can harmoniously coexist with nature while addressing pressing environmental challenges. By rethinking traditional housing concepts, we can create living spaces that are not only efficient but also inspiring.
This design demonstrates that sustainable living doesn't mean sacrificing comfort or aesthetics. It's about finding innovative solutions that respect our planet and enhance our quality of life. I encourage everyone to explore the possibilities of modular, adaptable housing and to prioritize sustainable practices in their own lives.
Let's work together to build a future where humans and nature thrive in balance.
Special mention
Honorable mention
Yaxin Sun, Zijie Wei & Chenglu Xue
Shuqi Zhang
Gerrit Schilder jr., Yibin Li, Enes Kabadayi, Matias Martirosjan
Yaxin Sun, Zijie Wei & Chenglu Xue
U.S.
The team consists of three members: Zijie Wei, Yaxin Sun, and Chenglu Xue. Since 2022, they have been working in Los Angeles, US, dedicated to pursuing creative design and innovative ideas, with the aim of making a meaningful contribution to architectural design.
Shuqi Zhang
China
Gerrit Schilder jr., Yibin Li, Enes Kabadayi, Matias Martirosjan
Netherlands
The KASA team members all have a different cultural background and specific specialist areas of interest within architecture, ranging from engineering to building biology. As a result, all facets of the project have been investigated, weighed and sorted from the start. The scope; 'Make building and living in nature possible, with every comfort for the residents and realized in an energy-efficient manner with renewable sources. Create a healthy, comfortable and sustainable indoor environment based on good climate design. The aim is sensible use of energy, resources and materials with the lowest possible ecological footprint, but above all to achieve ecological and economic off-grid nature-inclusive living. It has resulted in a construction-ready design of which a prototype will see the light of day in the foreseeable future!
