"IWI 灵活住房模块 | 可折叠的生态友好设计"

a flexible wood and canvas living solution

IWI offers a flexible living solution that seamlessly compresses and expands to adapt to each of its user’s individual lifestyles. Designed by architects Juan Ruiz and Amelia Tapia in Quito, Ecuador, the space is shaped from light wood and two modules connected by a folding structure that unravels like an accordion wrapped in canvas textile.

The module functions like a contained piece of furniture or a shelf when compressed, and when extended, transforms into a living space integrated with all necessary elements for a comfortable stay. From an office study or yoga studio to a workshop or guest room, the space can fulfill a range of functions depending on its user’s needs.

IWI housing module for adaptable living | all images by JAG Studio and Joel Heim

iwi module compresses & expands to adapt to its user’s needs

Juan Ruiz and Amelia Tapia engineered IWI using Computer Numerical Controlled technology to enable its universality, mass production, and easy assembly and disassembly. Within, the Ecuadorian architects create a minimalist space designed meticulously to the millimeter for an optimally unique and comfortable living experience. The back module is made up of a shelf fixture to compactly contain all necessary furniture elements and facilities such as lighting, electrical outlets, and electrical switches. Meanwhile the front module, sliding on wheels, houses the entrance to the space and can extend to a desired length to suit its function of use.

The flexible space also remains sensitive to its surroundings by utilizing the space it occupies without any permanent intervention. On the terrace of the Quito home, the outdoor space is not lost, and instead is transformed temporarily from exterior to interior as IWI unfolds. The cabin can be fully extended to comfortably house up to four people, opening halfway to leave outdoor space for external activities, or entirely closing to open up the terrace.

IWI offers a flexible architecture solution for various needs

Depending on its location, the module can be used both on and off-grid. Ruiz and Tapia site the structure on a terrace in the north of the capital city, facing west with views overlooking the slopes of the Pichincha volcano. Here, it serves as a studio and workplace for two, fitted with all necessary furniture and also electrical and water installations, ready to connect to the existing network.

the structure seamlessly compresses and expands like an accordion

light wood and canvas fabric shape the structure

a quiet space to work

the module functions like a contained piece of furniture or a shelf when compressed

Ruiz and Tapia site the structure overlooking the slopes of the Pichincha volcano

the flexible space remains sensitive to its surroundings without any permanent intervention on the site

project info:

name: IWI architecture: Juan Ruiz + Amelia Tapia

location: Quito, Ecuador

completed: 2023

photography: JAG Studio

drone photography: Joel Heim

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edited by: ravail khan | designboom