The flexible housing : a variation responds to higher density planning

Abstract

ARCHITECTURAL QUESTION: How can prefabricated flexible housing adapt to the changing needs and increasing density of Auckland?

ABSTRACT: Auckland currently has a rapidly increasing population and changing household demographics. This has led to a demand for more sustainable housing solutions. Medium-density Housing (MDH) and prefabricated (Prefab) techniques are currently the focus of interest. The former is considered to be a solution to reduce urban housing problems, while the latter, can improve housing productivity, affordability, and construction efficiency. This paper is based on contemporary MDH principles and prefab technology in order to find a new progressive solution that integrates flexible housing design methods. The final outcome of the proposal is to develop various flexible housing typologies that promote diversity to respond to the changing needs of users and to increase adaptability to the variety of different sites in Auckland.

Flexible housing is relatively new to New Zealand, therefore there is a lack of practical experience that can be referenced. In order to improve the feasibility of this project in a real world context, this paper will start with the study of 32 existing housing precedents in Auckland and with some underlying design principles so the possibilities can be summarized to guide the design process that follows. The design prototypes will be further tested on one section of the site, followed by an evaluation procedure using three MDH standards. Finally, the knowledge and experience will be applied to re-develop the entire site.

Flexibility and diversity are the two keywords that will be used to answer the research question. The technical solution -a prefabricated timber hybrid (module plus panel) system is used for the final realization. If this project is proven to be viable, it will provide a valuable alternative for the changing housing needs in Auckland.