We Start with the Square 5X5m As the Basic Housing Unit (Morpheme)

Morpheme

Morpheme is the minimal meaningful language unit

In this case morpheme is the minimal unit that produces living space.

Morpheme word: monomorphemic word.

Morpheme cube: monomorphemic cube.

Morphology: (biology) the scientific branch that deals with the structure of animals and plans.

(linguistics) the study of the morphemes and of the combination rulesfor forming with them admissible words.

Analysis

We start with the square 5x5m as the basic housing unit (morpheme). Through the geometry of this square we generate surfaces that come from combinations that we define through the division of the square in smaller parts of 1x1m.

From each generated surface derives a corresponding cube.

Each cube has the possibility of connection either with similar or different types ofcubes horizontally and vertically creating housing complex.

The cubes are divided in different categories according to the number of users that can host (singles, singles with a studio or families), the way they can be connected (side to side connection, polar connection), and the number of views that can provide once they are connected (two sided view, one sided view). So, the users can choose their morpheme according to their preferences and needs.

Morpheme takes advantage of the new tools of ourepoch — parametric software, computer aided manufacturing, mass customization, both in the design and the construction phase.

With these new tools, we have the opportunity to make different configurations of the housing unit eachself and in groups— while simultaneously addressing the needs of the inhabitants and the location characteristics in an efficient,responsible and environmental friendly way.

Interior

Functionality and spaciousness in the home is a constant battle. On the one hand is very attractive and comfortable to enjoy a cluttered-free environment, but on the other hand there remains always the need for certain furnishings and storage space.

Morpheme allows having both comfort and storage space by hiding all household functions - like shelves, tables and partitions - behind doors that can be pulled out.Same goes for the kitchen and bathroom areas, which are neatly hidden behind closed doors.

Sleeping area is hosted in the loft so there will be more space saving. The connection with it is realized with a telescopic aluminium loft ladder.

Dimensions an Transport

The morpheme units are lightweight and easily transportable.The sizes fall within the Transportation Department's standard shipping guidelines, so they do not need any special permits or pilot cars when they are being transported.

Foundation System

The units sit on a steel beam structure filled with concrete planes. This structure allows the vertical development of the building up to 2 layers.

Structural System

Custom recycled steel frames support the buildings and create rigid frames for the Structurally Insulated Panels (SIP’s) that cover floor, walls and roof. In this way units can be stacked on top of each other.

SIP’s: Exterior and Interior Finishes

The entire structure employs SIP’s. These panels are structural and at the same time the actual interior and exterior finish material. SIP’S are engineered laminated panels with foam cores and structural sheathing on each side.

Floor SIPS: 14cm

Wall SIPS: 10cm

Roof SIPS: 15cm

The panels are energy efficient, as they are stable over time and have no thermal drift. We use eco-friendly finishing materials. Users can choose interior and exterior finishes (cement boards, articulated brick, horizontal wood siding, corten steel, galvalume panels)

Glazing: Windows & Sliding doors

All window and sliding door extrusions have been customized so as to perfectly fit within each configuration.The windows are 2cm thick Lexan, lightweight transparent polycarbonate with a high thermal capacity. Some of them are stable.

Electrical /Plumbing/ Mechanical

All the wall panels come with 2 horizontal rows and 1 vertical row of pre-routed holes for electrician. The first row is for wiring the receptacles and the second row is for wiring switches. Select roof panels have a hollow tube in the SIP’s allowing to mount ceiling lights/fans as well as wire to them. Every unit comes with a pre-installed electrical panel.

The kitchen and bathrooms are all tucked in right and left side of the home, consolidating most of the plumbing lines. The bathrooms are vented traditionally and the kitchen sink has an island vent.