Prefabricated homes have have been around for ages, but they really rose to popularity in the early to mid 20th century as part of postwar reconstruction efforts and as a solution for you families looking for fast, affordable housing solutions in the newly established American suburbs.
They’ve recently regained popularity as an economical, efficient, and even stylish modern housing solution. Thanks to the effort of architectural innovators, they may even be a solid answer to the problem of homelessness in cities around the world.
Quick And Low Cost
While starchitect Richard Rogers is well known for his work on Heathrow’s Terminal 5, the new skyscraper project Three World Trade Center, and London’s Leadenhall Building—also known as “The Cheesegrater”—one of his latest creations is changing the lives of dozens young homeless people in south London.
The new residential complex is comprised of stacked modules that serve as a comfortable and affordable living solution for individuals in need. The prefab suite apartments are assembled at a factory and stacked via crane.
Within two weeks and at a cost of less than $1,700 per square meter, 36 new and affordable properties have just opened up to eager low-income renters.
Constructions That Change Lives
The prefab complex was commissioned by the YMAC and is seriously economical compared to the $2,255 per square meter that it currently costs for comparable government-funded low-income housing.
While the units themselves are snug compared to the average London studio, the $900 a month cost for rent is a lot more manageable. If the costs could be lowered further, this approach to low-income housing could change life for many in other areas.
A Home When Things Seem Hopeless?
Prefab housing may also be a practical solution in the wake of natural disasters and other misfortunes that leave many families suddenly homeless. A new prefab housing prototype built by students from City Tech has been dubed DURA, an acrynom for “Diverse”, “Urban”, “Resiliant”, and “Adaptable”.
The 1,000 square foot structure is stackable, includes solar panels for self-sustained power, and costs just $300,000 to build from the ground up. It could include all manner of modular furniture that will make the most of its interior, which is now open for tours at its current location in Brooklyn’s Navy Yard.
Considering new trends in housing solutions that include stylish micro homes, add-on and modified living spaces for an aging population, and a regular need for low-cost, high efficiency, and urban-sized residential spaces, perhaps a prefab approach is the answer. Share your thoughts on this approach to housing in the comments.
Article Sources:
http://qz.com
http://www.theguardian.com
http://ny.curbed.com
