IWI Is a Living Space That Extends or Compresses to Your Needs

May 06, 2023

Living in today's times with people moving to smaller, more affordable housing, as well as the overall lack of affordable opportunities available, thinking outside the box is imperative. Options like tiny houses, recreational vehicles, and accessory dwelling units (ADU) are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to alternative housing possibilities and hopefully the choices keep growing. Architects Juan Ruiz and Amelia Tapia have dropped their hat in the ring with a worthy contender: IWI, a design project that offers users a modular living space that can adapt to their own needs. The duo used CNC milling (Computer Numerical Controlled technology) to build the wood structure, making it easy to be mass produced and universally used.

IWI comprises two wooden modules that are connected with a folding structure resembling an accordion. The wood ends can be compressed together when space isn't needed to act as a piece of furniture or storage. When expanded, the space can be used for just about anything, including an office, studio, yoga room, relaxation zone, workshop, guest room, etc.

The front frame slides as it's compressed thanks to built-in wheels, while the canvas folds up.

Ruiz and Tapia have designed and patented IWI in Ecuador, where the original resides on a rooftop terrace for use as a studio or workspace. The interior is outfitted with everything needed for two people to work, including two tables, two chairs, storage, and a mini kitchenette. The structure is also primed for electrical and water.

The terrace still has plenty of room when the structure is expanded, but opens up more when it's closed up and not in use.

The front module consists of two glass doors that rotate out to completely open the unit up to its surroundings. The back module houses all the facilities, like electrical outlets, lighting, and sink, in addition to the functionality. The two tables and chairs hide within the shelves when more floor space is required.

Between the glass front and the light canvas, the interior doesn't feel claustrophobic.

IWI can be manufactured in two weeks time and built in just two days, and with a $7,950 price tag, it might be a great option for alternative dwellings.

Photos by JAG studio.Drone photos by Joel Heim.

Caroline Williamson is Editor-in-Chief of Design Milk. She has a BFA in photography from SCAD and can usually be found searching for vintage wares, doing New York Times crossword puzzles in pen, or reworking playlists on Spotify.

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