HABITAT
Habitat is designed for emerging adults who want to live independently, but avoid high housing expenses. In a world where unsustainable practices are the norm, this space-saving home is a step towards a better tomorrow. It features eco-friendly amenities and multifunctional furniture, and its carefully curated building materials supports users in various geographical locations, so occupants can live sustainably no matter where they locate themselves.
Sustainability is not simply putting solar panels on the roof, buying the “green” products, or using reusable bags. Sustainability is also the human ability to sustain themselves for a lifetime without impeding on future generations’ ability to do so. This “sustaining” means agency in where our food comes from, long-lasting and reconfigurable environments, and creating connection and community. Habitat embodies this definition of sustainability.
Interior Features
A 16’ x 25’ affordable tiny home taking a step towards a more sustainable future.
Project Type: Team
Completed: April 2022
Size: 400 sq.ft.
This is a space-saving coffee table that can transform into a work station or a four-top dining table. Multifunctional furniture not only transforms the space into whatever the user needs, but also eliminates having redundant furniture. Having well-crafted, reconfigurable pieces that will last throughout life is an important step to living a sustainable life in an unsustainable world. One piece of furniture created for multiple uses reduces cost, the amount of space needed, and carbon footprint.
Sustainability
MULTIFUNTIONAL FURNITURE
Materials
Slate Roofing
is a natural material that has the lowest carbon footprint of all roofing materials. Can be reused or recycled many times
Overview
Skylights deepen connection with nature, and makes space feel more open.
Large Operable Windows let in abundant natural lighting, and create opportunity for natural ventilation in place of reliance on HVAC systems.
Vertical Gardens increase user agency and connection to nature. Users can grow their own food, learning to sustain themselves without the need to go to distant supermarkets.
Rain Water System collects, filters, and purifies rainwater for household uses.
Reclaimed Wood
is not only a sustainable material, but using reclaimed wood keeps used materials from landfills, extending its life cycle and making it an affordable material.
Recycled GYP
is made from just paper and gypsum plaster, GYP board is an affordable option that can be recycled, keeping the material in use for as long as possible.
Linoleum
is made from natural and renewable resources like linseed oil, pine resin, jute, and cork dust. This recyclable and bio- degradable material is also usually cradle-to-cradle certified.
Reclaimed Wood Flooring sustainable, natural material, kept from landfill to extend its life. Could be thermally treated to increase durability.
Clerestory Window allows more natural light into the space and enhances natural ventilation
Wooden Ladder space-saving way to provide access to the loft.
Adjustable Blinds allows users to control the amount of sunlight coming into the home.
Compact Storage space-saving and keeps items organized. Limited storage probes users to prioritize necessities and limit unsustainable consumerism.
“Mudroom” provides additional storage space and multifunctional bench seating.
Low Ceiling creates cozy ambiance for rest and relaxation while still accommodating users’ heights.
Breakfast Bar makes efficient use of space creating multiple uses for the kitchen counter
