SectionHomes

We always perceive the module in terms of a planar element or a three dimensional space, like the minimum room, but why would we not consider module in terms of section? In the same way that Gothic cathedrals were built, from the altar to the main entrance, to allow for a quicker use of the purpose of such space this house is built by means of prefabricated cross sections. The Dutch studio 2 by 4 Architects have designed a dry modular construction method based on the Island House, featuring the same gable roof shape and the end glazed walls that bring in great luminosity to the interior space.

The slices of the house are 1.5 m wide, the basic module would be fully open while an additional appliance module would incorporate a compact kitchen in the middle with a small shower and a half bathroom at each side facing the walls. The modules could be combined in many different combinations leaving it up to the user for future house extensions.

NaturalFrames

Although this might seem shocking, this is one of the newest and at the same time oldest framework systems. It is a system that works with the natural structures, shaping them into the designer's visualised spaces. We could consider it by far the most sustainable and poetic structures, as they are not producing any waste and they are taking advantage of the huge strength and flexible potential of living trees.

The construction process is in fact very long or at least dependent on the growth rate of the trees, but could also be altered depending on the aimed degree of precision. This way of building architecture escapes from the mass production of elements and seeks to establish a more harmonious relationship with the natural environment that we seem to be returning to.

I find the beauty of this structures in the idea of a process of growth, merging with the environment and eventually disappearing into it with the progressive process of biodegrading of the wood; architecture grown from the earth and disappearing back to its origins. Although as with every other technique, this is a system that could eventually reach a greater level of massification, the need for a continuos care would still be able to capture that initial intent for subtlety and care for the environment.

HexaStructures

This project was delivered by BC Studies, the research lab that BC architects has initiated. It is based around the topics that we are constantly dealing with nowadays mainly the necessity of quick responsiveness towards unexpected situations within the city and the reutilisation of industrial material. The design facilitates the disassembly of the intervention and allows the re-reutilisation of the pallets for a new action following the nomad spirit. The structure is realised as beehive, in which the aluminium poles layout the structure for the placing of the pallets. 

It is interesting to highlight that the proposal of using mass-produced  and standardised members allows the adaptability of the design in global parameters; no matter where you might be as long as you find these two elements you are allow to easily reproduce the system. The construction system is also laied out as with a dry method with low tech fastening techniques  thus eliminating the need for any additional foundation or other more costly resources. Its geometry facilitates its modular character, the six sides of the hexagon allow an easy expansion at any time.

The flexibility of the proposal also allows to incorporate different panellised systems in the case that there are more resources available, so solid panels or glass coverings can be incorporated.