I couldn’t be more excited about my topic for design analysis this semester. Our group is collectively taking apart the “Alternative Dwellings” market. That means we’re doing research on contemporary prefab, modernist, modular, temporary post-emergency housing, automated houses (that one’s for you, Will), and mobile homes (RVs).
In our initial research, we learned about the first “catalog” homes, offered by Sears in 1908. When I think of prefab homes, the close analogy that comes to mind is the electric car– the movie, “Who Killed The Electric Car?”. Luckily, prefab dwellings, which are less wasteful and much more environmentally friendly than the McMansions that fuel suburban sprawl are making a huge resurgence. Whereas in the past, trailer parks have been stigmatized, I sense there is a latent market in prefab communities waiting to be tapped.
Apparently, I’m in good company. (Thanks Judd for the link).
Watched “Who Killed the Electric Car” recently (great documentary), then i heard that GM and Tesla are making another run at the electric car (yay for progress!) hopefully development of this technology can go on unhindered by the corporations that depend on oil consumption.