DALLAS: McKinsey defines affordable housing as that requiring no more than 30 per cent of income.
Small, temporary, modular homes are one potential solution. A product designer has devised a concept he calls “Houselets,” described as “simple, mobile, modular building in available space.” The term Houselets borrows from the idea of parklets, which are small, temporary parks installed across one to three parking spaces.
Key features of this approach include:
– Open source design: core features provide some standardization and accommodate each builder’s unique ideas. The homes could be factory built by a professional builder or built by the homeowner.
– Modular design: a standardized structure can be built using common components, such as perforated steel tubing, then completed with a variety of roofing, cladding and interior systems.
– Non-site specific and non-proprietary: modules can be moved, bought, sold, changed, and combined more efficiently than standard housing options. They’re highly adaptable to different sites and needs.