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|ME:LU| (#49) |
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| Type of building: | Residential |
Entry Description | |
| ME:LU stands for Modular Expandable: Living Unit and is based on a concept of providing a housing module that can work for a single person, a family, or even a temporary work force while still exemplifying a lifecycle form of design. We have designed expandability and sustainability / re-use into our modular living unit by using a standard cargo container with identical openings. This allows for the containers to be reconfigured in various ways and added to the initial layout of two containers. | |
| A discussion of design for adaptability and disassembly techniques incorporated: ME:LU is designed for adaptability as well as assembly and dis-assembly. For instance, a single person or couple may purchase the standard two containers for their use. As the family grows, so can the home. With the simple addition of another module, the house can then be adequate for kids, home office / workout area / art studio or even guest rooms with more bathing facilities. There could seemingly be no end to how many containers one could use. The modules can be set up inside of a PUD plan or small housing community where people can have interchangeable unit mixes and flexibility on how they are sited, organized, etc. A major factor contributing to the build-ability of this project relies on two major issues. First the container would be built off-site in a controlled environment. All systems of the building would be installed into the containers and tested for use. This would essentially reduce the amount of waste and trips to the site with material drops or trips to the land-fill. All pieces that connect are designed to be reconnected, therefore, the ME:LU can be built off-site, shipped to the site and assembled in place. This should expedite all of the phases of construction and minimize impact on the proposed site. While the ME:LU is being constructed; the site will be prepared for the delivery and erection of the residential structures. The site will not need to be completely leveled which reduces the grading impacts and the trenches will be dug for new footings and CMU block retaining walls to set the containers on. The containers will cantilever off of one end thus minimizing the impact/footprint of the ME:LU on the earth. Utilities will all be ready for the installation of the ME:LU and when ready, the pieces will be shipped to the site, installed and hooked-up; ready for living. Another function of ME:LU is its ability to be disassembled as easily as it was assembled and adapt to a new location. | |
| Environmental implications of entry: Each container would come with solar panels on the roof to provide solar energy for the electrical needs of the resident. In areas where power is available, the solar panels will assist in turning back the meter and supplying the grid. One set of these solar panels would be dedicated to providing domestic hot water for the resident. The proposal sites the containers in such a way that they maximize the solar exposure. To counteract high heat gain we are proposing light colors to help reflect as much sunlight as possible. We have also raised the containers off the ground to allow for ventilation / cooling around all surfaces of the structure. We have located operable windows to create cross ventilation as well as operable roof vents to act as heat stacks to help naturally cool the space. We have removed portions of the existing container side walls for doors and windows and reused these panels in areas of the project for shading devices. | |
| Economic or policy implications of entry: The US is currently stock piling shipping containers sent to us by other countries due to the high costs of returning them to their country of origin. Our proposal allows these containers, the structure and enclosure of the ME:LU units, to be purchased for only $1,000 to $4,000 dollars. ME:LU is designed in such a way that it will be available all over the world. The ME:LU modules are constructed in a controlled environment and shipped to be assembled on location to minimize and speed up the construction process. By utilizing passive techniques such as heating and cooling, energy and funds can be used for other needs of those residing in the modular unit. Along with passive techniques the ME:LU units take advantage of solar power, electrical conservation, and water conservation to cut down on utility costs for the residence. | |
| Explain how the entry advances lifecycle building education: The visual appearance of the ME:LU unit is a learning device in itself. The modular units show how everyday materials can be recycled and used in creative ways to form a residential dwelling. Not only are we employing Green technologies in the design and functionality of the project, but we are distilling down what one truly needs to live. The interiors are well designed to maximize functionality within the small confines of the container. A great way to minimize carbon footprint and impact on the environment is to reduce the amount of material going into a structure. Therefore a compact utilitarian design that provides attractive solutions to everyday issues is a strong theme throughout our solution. This particular form of design educates individuals on what is really necessary and teaches them that functionality is not dependent on size but intentional manipulations of space. The modular unit shows that a large house is not necessary to be functional and comfortable. Not only is this utilizing conservation in the manufacturing and construction process, but the operational sources needed to support the lifestyles of the residents. The operational systems intended for ME:LU will also act as an educational tool for those who come in contact with the units. ME:LU promotes waste composting and the reuse of grey water as well as living with less for the betterment of the environment. Those residing in the ME:LU units will experiment with living less and see what is really necessary to live comfortably. | |
| Additional information: | |
Entry Metrics | |
| Estimated building square footage: 400 square feet | |
| Tons of concrete reduced/conserved in your entry: 32 tons | |
| Explanation: To minimize the footprint as well as reduce the amount of concrete used, the containers are placed on CMU block retaining walls and cantilevered off of one end. Fly-ash concrete would be used as an inexpensive alternative for Portland cement. | |
| Tons of wood reduced/conserved in your entry: 6 | |
| Explanation: Precisely, 6.4 tons of wood will be conserved. The existing structure of the shipping containers will act as the frame for the ME:LU units and eliminates the need for standard wood framing. Reclaimed 2x4’s, engineered lumber, and local wood will be used when wood members are necessary. | |
| Tons of steel reduced/conserved in your entry: 1 | |
| Explanation: Precisely, .54 tons of steel will be conserved. Out of service steel cargo shipping containers are reused for the structure and enclosure of the ME:LU units. The steel cut for the window and door openings are reused as shading devices so that no steel is wasted. | |
| Tons of aluminum reduced/conserved in your entry: 1 | |
| Explanation: Precisely, 0.13 tons of aluminum will be conserved. Factory assembled slotted steel brackets will be used in place of standard aluminum window frames. These steel frames are pre-manufactured and will require no on-the-job assembly. | |
| Tons of carpet reduced/conserved in your entry: 1 | |
| Explanation: Precisely, 0.25 tons of carpet will be conserved. Sustainably harvested and reclaimed lumber will be used in place of carpet throughout the ME:LU units. The planks used are pre-finished and do not have to be sanded and finished on the jobsite, and are easy and inexpensive to install. | |
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| Website of GHG measurement tool used: http:// | |
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