Do designs for low-cost, sustainable prefab homes ever get thrown up by the existing housing market?
Yes, low-cost prefab homes are widely available. In fact they are often on display next to highways in some parts of North America. The main issue is that there is a certain stigma attached to this typology and its users’ demographic. Sustainability-wise, it depends on the user as much as the technology: I have been to trailer parks where inhabitants have multiple cars and big SUVs. We need to focus people’s attention on lifestyle change through good design as much as by making eco-friendly solutions available. People are driven by positive experience: I believe good design is always the hook. Will any of the designs be constructed? Most of the entries are achievable and marketable. We are looking for interested parties to fund prototypes and form partnerships; when that’s confirmed you will be among the first to know. I watched the crowd’s reaction over our four days of exhibiting the designs at IDSwest [a design show in Vancouver last month], and people were very intrigued by the des
