Adelaide’s Studio Nine Architects has designed a prototype for modular, transportable tiny houses that could be used to alleviate homelessness.
Dubbed Calyx, the project is inspired by the protective layer around a flower bud. It comprises a 16-square-metre unit that accommodates a sleeping area, an ensuite, a small kitchen and storage spaces.
Studio Nine undertook consultations, surveys and interviews with the intended end users to understand how they would use the spaces before arriving at a design.
The design minimizes circulation spaces within the unit while at the same time maximizing natural light penetration through the use of large windows, doors and skylights.
The interior is designed with natural materials and provides connection to the outdoors. The units are affordable, modular, transportable and energy efficient.
The Calyx Project designed by Studio Nine Architects.
Image: Courtesy Studio Nine Architects
They are designed to be installed in a cluster with a communal pod that would provide spaces for washing facilities, a large communal kitchen and serve as a space for events such as skills based workshops, financial training, cooking demonstrations, gardening workshops and barista courses.
The communal pod would also include an office and live-in facilities for a case worker or counsellor.
The project is the brainchild Forage Built, which aims to provide housing for people experiencing homelessness. The design is being pitched to organizations in the homelessness sector and the team are looking for land holders and developers that could provide a site for temporary medium term use.
The construction of a prototype and a pilot program are both underway.
Source: Architecture - architectureau
