The project takes a new approach to the conventional building envelope and creates ways of life between itself. Up to 10% of a normal building footprint is occupied by walls as dead space. By delaminating each individual layer of a wall and window assembly, we are able to build on the characteristics of each part and create new spatial conditions. The design is a prototype, which uses an internal footprint of only 39m2. Occupation is flexible with the use of two separate layers of glazing. An external layer with hinge doors activates and transforms external spaces; open the living room door to create an outdoor cinema. Play spaces, vegetable ‘pantries’ and extended dining area expand out of the internal programs to 100m2. By using such an approach, we estimate we can save up to 25% of cladding, internal linings and internal framing compared to a conventional house of a similar size. Louvers, fly screens, cladding, double glazing, framing, internal linings, curtains and blinds create a series of layers which allow for increased material and climatic efficiency. Our principle is that each assembly layer, each material, each fitting, can be of greater value and use than just for its sole intended purpose. Continuing the principle efficiency, door tracks are also the rails for the fly screen, creating form out of function and conventional materials. This logic is extended from an aesthetic point of view, where the reflective properties of glass are played upon to create new spatial conditions, which immerse life on the exterior landscape into the interior.
