Second Place Winner
House OYS
Design by
Kevin Cheung & David Hu
A very simple yet convincing scheme that is beautifully articulated. The scheme tries to create a micro-ecosystem that water and heat, the two important elements, are conserved. However, the presentation did not show clearly how the design is being conceived in response to its imaginary context, which perhaps is a very important factor shaping the form, system design and structural idea of the design.
-Kar Him Mo
very elegant design well displayed in your graphics.
A very simple proposal well executed.
-Lawrence Daykin
The design is straightforward but very logical and clear. The main space in the middle works pretty well in an ecosystem way and spatial way.
-Xudong Zhu
Kevin Cheung & David Hu
We are both aspiring architects based in the USA. seeking further development and recognition. Off the Grid, provided us a chance to challenge our design, knowledge, and skills amongst others.
Celebrating Creativity & Vision
Winner’s Spotlight: An Exclusive Interview
Discover the story behind the victory — from concept to creation.
Design Concept & Sustainable Innovation
Our initial conceptual intent was to strip away what modern people deem necessary. Our design negotiates the line between comfort and necessity. We wanted to provide a comfortable living environment that is connected to nature. Trying to do this, we realize that modern people are heavily reliant on functions provided by the grid. To address the conservation and the reusage of the natural elements for human sustainability and benefits, we developed our design on the workflow collection and recycling to build space around the experience.
Water is an essential resource for off grid living, so we wanted our design to have a feasible solution to that problem. Rainwater collection seemed to be the most optimal way to obtain clean water, so we looked at rainwater filtration to provide drinking water for sustenance and gray water for plumbing. An interesting idea came to us when we were looking for methods of water filtration, why not use one of nature’s most effective filters? Oysters!
Design Process
Our design process began with a brainstorm of the essentials that we needed to tackle as mentioned; the reuse of the elements and quicker natural methods that can be sustained long term in providing an adequate lifestyle. Prototyping and refining this idea meant multiple schematics of technical methodology and progressive interactive layout designs.
Impact and Benefits
Our design proposes an interesting way that people can coexist with nature. Introducing oysters and implementing it into our design makes it seem less destructive to the environment. A way to coexist with organisms in their environment and even share resources can allow people to impact the environment positively.
Advice for Aspiring Designers
Sustainability is and will continue to be a great big part of our future. As designers, we must be resourceful in what we envision and the everlasting impacts we create all over the world. Our ambitions must be within a collaborative effort as we bring about the many professions, we encounter to provide a sustainable method that can reduce natural waste and promote reuse, reduce, and recycle.
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