With construction and systems
The studied examples present very few energy efficient mechanisms both in the way they distribute power and supply systems, and in their construction mechanisms. Efficient lighting is sometimes in place (only mandatory in London). Other than the compliance with regulations on minimum thermal performance, the cases generally do not present current energy-efficient mechanisms such as solar or heat panels, water harvesting, or any passive-energy technologies.
Although this is an issue related to legislation, it may well be assessed from the perspective of the user: the increase of energy costs directly impacts the maintenance costs of a house. If these environmental variables finally become mandatory criteria for all housing production, how will these impact residential design?
Design Operations
Optimize
Construction processes and infrastructure can be optimized to provide new forms of housing. Prefabricated, quickly assembled, modular construction systems lend themselves to various housing types, making them adaptable to different urban contexts. Their decreased construction times and reduced waste revamp high and medium density developments. Also, collective kitchens and bathrooms optimise plumbing infrastructure and boost energy performance.
Project Descriptions
22- Pop Up modules/ “Under Construction” – Shanghai
The prefabricated modules form collective housing models in the form of courtyards, blocks, row houses and others.
With little alteration the units are merged, clustered or stacked, allowing for a variation of flat types, and different auxiliary and communal spaces.
Original Project: Prefabricated Container Compound for Construction Workers, China.
23- Plumbing/ “Communal Pipes” – Santiago
Collective kitchens transform the wide open corridors and vertical circulation, increasing the efficiency of plumbing and services in the slab.
By externalising the kitchen, the dwelling space becomes more flexible. An integrated shaft with vertical circulation becomes a celebrated part of the communal infrastructure.
Original Project: Villa Portales by BVCH, Santiago