The newly-graduated architect rarely has the luxury of living in an owned home, and may even find their starting salary insufficient to afford a decent apartment within walking (or riding) distance of the office. For a three-figure sum, this designer has solved both problems at once via a unique DIY dwelling project.
Dai Haifei needed to save money and spent so much time at work anyway, the solution was strange but simple: construct a livable abode that can be wheeled and parked in the empty space right outside of the workplace.
It isn't much – just a bed, a lamp and a water tank inside – but it is sufficient for someone trying to save and scrape together a living. While not the warmest of residences, seed sacks on the outside are slowing adding some exterior weather and sound protection.
These burlap bags, layered over a waterproof membrane, provide essential rain protection – particularly as the root systems expand and help soak up and redirect water during more significant downfalls (while a small skylight-plus-solar-panel brings in light and power).
Between a somewhat-breathable skin and lofted floor, the interior is effectively kept mostly dry and, with some interlocking strips of weaved wood, is actually a rather comfortable-looking studio to retire to at the end of a long workday.