Design Habitat » DESIGNhabitat Studio II

DESIGNhabitat Studio II - T-bone

the t-bone configuration:
By breaking apart the “double-wide” box and joining the two modules in a “T” configuration, this scheme allows the house to frame and engage the exterior at both the street and rear sides of the lot. This configuration also results in a well-zoned and efficient plan. The bedrooms occupy the ends of each wing and the social spaces form the core of the plan and link to the porches on each side.

Presentation model front view

Presentation model back view

modular vs. site-built
In order to build quickly, as much as possible was proposed to be built in-factory. However, the few site-built elements provide opportunites for customization. Both front and back porch are site-built, as well as a “pop-out” section of the kitchen.

relation to site
The ‘T’ arrangement of the modules defines yard space in the front and back of the home. By aligning the front and back doors at the joint of the ‘T’, the entry/vestibule area becomes a link to the exterior spaces on front and back. The strategy also allows the house to “borrow space from the outdoors,” making the compact house feel larger than it actually is.

public vs. private
Private spaces are located on the extemities of the plan, allowing all of the public space to be grouped together in the middle. The public spaces, which link to the porches, and the yard space, make the living area feel larger. Ceiling heights also help proportion the larger spaces.

passive cooling
Several strategies are employed to make the home more comfortable without the use of air conditioning. The turning of the modules perpendicular to one another creates an opportunity for better cross-ventilation. Most major spaces have windows on more than one wall, encouraging a comfortable breeze when opened. Screened doors and porches also allow for the front and back doors to be left open. They also create comfortable “rooms” for fall and winter. Large overhangs on the south facade also help protect the walls from becoming heated by the sun.

breeze flows through the room, while hot air exits through high windows

Individual drawings available for download by clicking “download pdf” next to the corresponding images. Whole board .pdf’s also available for download below.

download pdf downlad pdf