MO.CA (Mobile Catalyst), born from the innovative minds at the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia (IAAC), represents a pioneering leap in sustainable mobile living. Crafted from dowel-laminated timber harvested sustainably at Valldaura Labs in the scenic confines of Collserola Natural Park, Barcelona, MO.CA embodies the ethos of ecological design and digital construction techniques. Rooted in the interdisciplinary pursuits of the Master’s program in Advanced Ecological Buildings & Biocities (MAEBB), this self-sufficient abode heralds a new era of mobile habitats, seamlessly blending mobility, sustainability, and resilience.

At the heart of MO.CA lies a profound exploration into the fusion of mobility and sustainability, drawing inspiration from historical traditions of self-sufficiency and contemporary imperatives for adaptable living spaces. In response to the pressing challenges of climate change and the evolving landscape of remote work opportunities, MO.CA emerges as a beacon of innovation, offering not just shelter but a platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and community engagement. From its compact yet functional design optimized for restricted footprints to its seamless integration of essential utilities and communal spaces, MO.CA embodies a vision of holistic living that champions environmental stewardship and human well-being.

The craftsmanship displayed in the construction of the Vigia by Portugal-based Madeiguincho is a testament to the family’s exceptional skills in wood and timber craftsmanship. Founded by a family of carpenters, Madeiguincho has created a unique off-grid tiny home that not only reflects their expertise but also stands out in terms of aesthetics. The Vigia, meaning “Lookout” in Portuguese, is a 23-foot-long home built on a double-axle trailer. The entire structure, both inside and out, is adorned with exquisite wood finishes, showcasing the mastery of the artisans in creating a warm and inviting living space. The interior of the Vigia is bathed in natural light, thanks to an abundance of glazing strategically incorporated into the design. Wood shutters are thoughtfully installed to provide control over the amount of light entering the living space.

The central area of the home features a well-equipped kitchen with custom cabinetry, an electric cooktop, and a sink. Connected to the kitchen is a cozy living room, complete with an L-shaped sofa, a wood-burning stove, decorative windows, and ample storage space. The bathroom, situated opposite the living room, boasts a composting toilet, sink, and shower, with the added convenience of a secondary entrance accessible from the outside. The Vigia’s bedroom is a loft space accessible by a fixed ladder, featuring a double bed and the characteristic low ceiling commonly found in tiny homes. The home’s ability to function off-grid is made possible by a solar panel array on the roof, connected to a battery system, along with installed water tanks, making it a sustainable and self-sufficient living space. Ultimately, Vigia’s USP lies in the specialized and stunning timber craftsmanship, elevating it above typical tiny homes and placing it at the forefront of aesthetics and design.

Measured Architecture has skillfully crafted a waterfront vacation home on Mayne Island, British Columbia, seamlessly merging contemporary building techniques with the rich history of centuries-old timber. The Shor House stands as a testament to the firm’s commitment to sustainable design, showcasing the potential of careful deconstruction and refurbishment of wooden buildings to extend the life-cycle of materials otherwise destined for landfill. The project has earned acclaim, receiving the 2023 Best New Future House Award from Global Design News and The Chicago Athenaeum Museum for Architecture and Design, underscoring its innovative approach to preserving history while embracing modern architectural practices.

Drawing inspiration from traditional Japanese architecture and the philosophies of renowned artists, the Shor House encapsulates a spirit of conservation. Much of the recycled lumber used in the project originates from the very site it now adorns, with the house and barn being carefully dismantled rather than demolished. This approach allows the patina of age and wear to infuse authenticity into the new structure, contributing to the narrative of sustainability. The project goes beyond the site, incorporating recycled materials from distant sources like yellow cedar ties from the Englewood Railroad on Vancouver Island and lumber from the former Turner Dairy in Vancouver. This meticulous sourcing of materials, coupled with the exclusion of drywalls in favor of repurposed exterior cladding, reinforces the Shor House as a pioneering example of a zero-take approach to recycling and sustainable architecture.