IN-PERSON London. Section A

Abstract

Tiny houses have gained popularity in recent years as a minimalist housing option for those who are satisfied with a small living space. They offer several advantages like being cost-effective and in many cases also mobile and flexible. At first glance, tiny houses also seem to be a sustainable option because of their limited use of materials and energy. However, a more thorough investigation reveals that most tiny houses are in fact just other versions of the unplanned, often uncontrolled expansion of urban areas into surrounding rural or undeveloped land. Leading to so called urban sprawl, and thereby maligned by urban planners wanting to safeguard the green areas in between cities. But can’t we combine the advantages of the tiny houses with urban density? Can’t we cross the boundaries between the tiny house movement and urban planners? Thereby offering a model for affordable housing to make cities liveable? This paper proposes a new typology which was tested in a research by design studio. This new type combines compact stacking with the cost-effectiveness and flexibility that attract the younger generations. Cost-effective by proposing small private spaces, not larger than 25 m2, in a collective framework. And flexible by using a modular and circular infill. Also offering, besides a private outdoor space with view on green surroundings, a range of collective facilities, that compensate for the limited space in your tiny house, but are at the same time also made possible by the density of the stacking of the small private spaces.