Elevated three feet above ground to enhance flood resilience, the microhome employs plywood construction and an integrated bio-digester system to provide sustainable housing for farmworkers in California's Central Valley.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated three feet to prevent flood risk while maintaining thermal stability.
02
Designed with multi-functional spaces to maximize limited area of 25 square meters.
03
Incorporates an innovative bio-digester for efficient waste management and methane production.
04
Features strategically placed windows to optimize natural light and reduce heat gain.
05
Constructed using metal helical piles for a reduced environmental impact compared to traditional foundations.
General keywords
The Oasis Microhome project addresses the housing needs of agricultural workers in California's Central Valley. This architectural design represents an innovative approach to creating affordable, sustainable living conditions that enhance the quality of life for its residents. The microhome offers essential functionalities such as living space, cooking facilities, and waste management, all contained within a compact footprint.
The design employs a holistic strategy that integrates energy efficiency with community-building. With a floor area of 25 square meters, the layout emphasizes multi-functional spaces that can adapt to various activities including dining, sleeping, and socializing. The project’s elevation, raised three feet above the ground, ensures proper drainage during flooding while allowing for thermal retention.
Sustainable Materials and Systems
The Oasis Microhome utilizes materials chosen for both efficiency and environmental considerations. Key materials include plywood for interior cabinetry and structural framing, drywall for internal finishes, and helical metal piles for the foundation, minimizing reliance on traditional concrete. The raised metal roof facilitates rainwater collection, while photovoltaic panels provide solar energy, contributing to the off-grid capability of the microhome.
The design integrates a bio-digester system for managing waste, turning food scraps into usable methane for cooking. This closed-loop system not only treats waste effectively but also contributes to agricultural sustainability by generating liquid fertilizer.
Unique Design Solutions
Several design features distinguish the Oasis Microhome from conventional housing solutions. The strategic placement of windows facing the Northeast optimizes natural light while minimizing solar heat gain. Retractable furniture elements are incorporated to maximize the limited space, allowing residents to reconfigure the living area according to their needs.
This microhome design fosters community interaction by organizing several units in a grid pattern. This arrangement encourages social connections among residents, thus addressing isolation often found in rural settings.
The microhome project's architectural plans and sections detail the innovative spatial relationships and material selections that define the design. Additionally, interested readers are encouraged to explore the architectural designs further to understand the comprehensive approach to sustainable housing exemplified in this project. Review the architectural ideas presented to gain deeper insights into its overall impact and contributions to housing solutions.
The design employs a holistic strategy that integrates energy efficiency with community-building. With a floor area of 25 square meters, the layout emphasizes multi-functional spaces that can adapt to various activities including dining, sleeping, and socializing. The project’s elevation, raised three feet above the ground, ensures proper drainage during flooding while allowing for thermal retention.
Sustainable Materials and Systems
The Oasis Microhome utilizes materials chosen for both efficiency and environmental considerations. Key materials include plywood for interior cabinetry and structural framing, drywall for internal finishes, and helical metal piles for the foundation, minimizing reliance on traditional concrete. The raised metal roof facilitates rainwater collection, while photovoltaic panels provide solar energy, contributing to the off-grid capability of the microhome.
The design integrates a bio-digester system for managing waste, turning food scraps into usable methane for cooking. This closed-loop system not only treats waste effectively but also contributes to agricultural sustainability by generating liquid fertilizer.
Unique Design Solutions
Several design features distinguish the Oasis Microhome from conventional housing solutions. The strategic placement of windows facing the Northeast optimizes natural light while minimizing solar heat gain. Retractable furniture elements are incorporated to maximize the limited space, allowing residents to reconfigure the living area according to their needs.
This microhome design fosters community interaction by organizing several units in a grid pattern. This arrangement encourages social connections among residents, thus addressing isolation often found in rural settings.
The microhome project's architectural plans and sections detail the innovative spatial relationships and material selections that define the design. Additionally, interested readers are encouraged to explore the architectural designs further to understand the comprehensive approach to sustainable housing exemplified in this project. Review the architectural ideas presented to gain deeper insights into its overall impact and contributions to housing solutions.
