Compact Live-Work House (Portland, USA)
-- Architecture Competition
Design a compact house that seamlessly combines living and working in one efficient space. The project should support everyday residential needs while accommodating activities such as remote work, studying, making, designing, or small-scale creative production.
Premise
As remote work and flexible lifestyles become increasingly common, homes must serve multiple purposes. This competition challenges participants to create a small, adaptable dwelling that balances productivity, comfort, and wellbeing within a limited footprint.
Objective
Design a compact live-work house for one or more occupants. The proposal should integrate living and working functions while maximizing space efficiency, flexibility, natural light, and user comfort.
Site
The site is a hypothetical urban or suburban lot in Portland, Oregon, USA. Participants may select a suitable context and should consider solar orientation, climate, access, and neighborhood character.
Requirements
* Integrated living and workspace
* Flexible and multifunctional design
* Efficient use of space
* Natural lighting and ventilation
* Sustainable design strategies
* Realistic and buildable construction
Evaluation Criteria
* Architectural concept and originality
* Live-work integration
* Spatial efficiency and flexibility
* Sustainability and environmental response
* User experience and functionality
* Feasibility and presentation quality
Budget
Maximum construction budget: $150,000 USD, including materials, labor, and installation.
Competition Schedule
Competition Launch: 1 June 2026
Early Bird Registration: 30 June 2026
* Standard: $29
* Student: $19
Standard Registration: 20 July 2026
* Standard: $49
* Student: $39
Late Registration: 10 August 2026
* Standard: $69
* Student: $59
Final
Submission: 25 August 2026
Results Announcement: 10 September 2026
Submission Requirements
1 x A1 Board (PDF, minimum 150 dpi, maximum 20 MB) presenting the concept, design strategy, drawings, and visualizations.
Prizes
Winner x 1
* Recognition
* Media Exposure
* Certificate
Runners-up x 4
* Recognition
* Certificate
Participation Certificates
* Awarded to all entrants
