For this project, our group was tasked with designing a social housing solution in Plymouth, considering the social, economic, and environmental implications of our design. We chose to address the urgent need for homeless accommodation by creating a supportive housing community. Our concept was to foster social reintegration by providing a safe, adaptable environment where residents could build connections and access job opportunities on-site.
Project Approach:
We developed a modular housing solution using pre-assembled units equipped with essential utilities. These units were designed to offer comfortable, secure living spaces while promoting a sense of community among residents. By integrating this housing into the surrounding area, our aim was to enhance social cohesion and create a pathway for residents to reintegrate into society.
Key Design Elements:
- Pre-assembled units efficiently constructed to provide all necessary amenities for a safe, dignified living experience.
- Spaces designed to encourage social interaction, collaboration, and access to employment opportunities on-site.
- A focus on minimizing environmental impact by incorporating energy-efficient materials and systems.
BIM Manual and Project Management:
An important aspect of this project involved creating a comprehensive BIM (Building Information Modeling) Manual. This experience required organizing project data systematically to ensure clear communication and efficient coordination among stakeholders.
Key Takeaways and Skills Gained:
- Learned how to effectively create and manage a BIM Manual, ensuring streamlined project workflows and data accuracy.
- Developed an understanding of pre-assembled housing units and their benefits in terms of speed, cost-efficiency, and sustainability.
- Gained insights into community-focused design, emphasizing social reintegration through architectural solutions.
- Enhanced my ability to integrate social, economic, and environmental considerations into architectural projects.
- Improved skills in project organization and scheduling to meet deadlines and manage collaborative efforts.