This is a fresh look at small life, courtesy of Ecuadorian architects Juan Luis and Amelia Tapia. Dubbed Iwi, the structure, thanks to its concertina-like design, is a perfect home for those with limited space, his office or accommodation.
Created using a CNC milling machine, the Iwi is made from a mixture of cypress and plywood with outward-opening glass double doors and cork and wool as insulation. The design is vaguely reminiscent of Cabin Anna, as Tapia is actually involved in the development of that project.
At its largest, it measures 8.5 square meters (approximately 91 square feet) when fully extended, but folds down to just 2.4 square meters (nearly 26 square feet). Since the upper frame is on wheels, it can be closed with relatively little force.
This particular prototype model shown is set up on the roof of a terrace in Quito and set up as a two-person office. There is a desk area, two chairs, space for a printer, a small kitchenette space with drawers, shelves and a hidden sink. It also has electricity and water connections, but off-grid setups are possible, the team said. Awaiting confirmation on how the structure will hold up to the elements.
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“We can expand or compress the space depending on the user’s needs,” Ruiz and Tapia explain. When compressed, it works like furniture or shelving. When expanded, offices/studios, yoga studios, relaxation spaces, workshops, meeting rooms, guest rooms, etc. It allows the flexibility to use both indoor and outdoor spaces (by compressing) while respecting the surrounding environment. “
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The first Iwi prototype took a year to develop and a month to manufacture. The team says it can be manufactured in two weeks and assembled in two days. Prices start at just US$7,950, but there’s no information about delivery availability or costs.
Source: Iwi
