The RACV Tiny Home, designed by Maddison Architects in 2018, is a transportable dwelling intended to serve as a showcase for sustainable and affordable living. Commissioned by the Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV) and designed by Peter Maddison, the host of Grand Designs Australia, the tiny house toured Victoria to educate the public on green building practices. The home was awarded a Commendation for Sustainable Architecture at the AIA Victorian Architecture Awards in 2019. The design is a contemporary reinterpretation of the traditional gabled house, which was chosen as an iconic shape of home. To maximize space and create a dynamic, welcoming entrance, the home features bright yellow, hydraulically-operated panels that fold out to form a deck and sunshades, reminiscent of a box unfolding. The 18.75-square-meter structure is built on a durable steel frame, allowing it to be transported on the back of a truck, and can function entirely off-grid or connect to services. Sustainability is a core component of the RACV Tiny Home. It was constructed with a seven-layered wall and roof system that includes "phase change" insulation, making it 60% more energy-efficient than a standard Australian home. It also incorporates passive design principles and active systems like integrated solar panels and battery storage. Locally sourced materials were prioritized to reduce carbon miles, including charred timber boards for the exterior and radial sawn Victorian hardwood and cork flooring for the interior. The design also features smart technology, allowing for voice-activated control of various functions, from lighting and entertainment to security and energy monitoring. The interior space is cleverly organized with a main living area that combines the kitchen, sleeping, and living spaces, along with a separate bathroom. The design includes built-in furniture to maximize efficiency, such as a built-in bed and bench, a slide-out dining table, and a cargo net that serves as a playful loft for children. Credits Architects: Maddison Architects Client: Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV) Textile Consultant: Clare Kelder Builder: Simple Motion Engineering: WGA Manufacturers: Paarhammer Windows and Doors, Danaplon, Eco Timber, Envirowalk, Lysaght, Phase Change, Premium Floors Australia Photography: Andrew G. Hobbs