MICRO : CONSTRUCTION // MATERIALS
housing units
Galvanised zinc roof
Stud internal walls
Monolithic concrete foundation slab
Curtain wall enclosing steel and glass staircases
Brick veneer on steel structure
Chamfered brick columns to enhance brick expressionism
Concrete floor slab on metal decking with underfloor heating
Light chimneys
*Hoverable icons links to !:20 construction details
facade development
A series of facade studies was conducted to test it's compatibility with the expression of a monolithic brick facade. These experimental facades provides freedom and choices for residents in expanding their homes in the near future.
BRICK X HEMPCRETE
The monolithic quality of hempcrete that mimics that of concrete provides a stark contrast with the vibrant and red hues of bricks, and could be easily adapted as a canvas to apply on different shades of renders.
BRICK X GREEN WALLS
Living wall gardens would provide a boost in environmental and landscape qualities for the built environment. Assembly of the frame on the built facade is easily manageable, and allows residents an opportunity to harvest their own produce.
BRICK X TIMBER LATTICE WALL
A lattice facade would allow ample natural light to permeate the space, which improves solar gain and passive heating strategies. However, these would require a higher skill labour to ensure that the structure is assembled correctly, thus defeats the purpose of self-built and low cost expansions.
conclusion : Suggested materials
BRICK X BRICK
Imperial weathered brickwork (215x102.5x73mm) that matches those typically used in Northen England is a nod towards the local context and history, while the glazed multi-coloured bricks provides a more contemporary and lively built environment. The uniform yet flexible mix of both type of bricks would provide a contrast in conjunction with the timeline of self-built expansions over time.