Wikihouse
The WikiHouse project is intended to create an open-source set of construction information for building components that can be downloaded, manufactured and assembled using commonly available materials and equipment, at low cost and with little need for training.
WikiHouse was launched in September 2011 by 00, Espians, Momentum Engineering, and Beatrice Galilee. The WikiHouse project won the TED Cities2.0 Award in 2012.
Anyone can download designs from the WikiHouse open library, or add designs for new components to by following a simple set of guidelines. A WikiHouse plugin for Google SketchUp enables users to generate cutting files for components that can be manufactured from standard sheet materials such as plywood using a CNC (computer numerical control) router. The components can then be assembled, forming joints with pegs and wedges. The resulting frames can be raised and assembled by hand and then cladding panels can be attached and services, windows and so on installed.
It is claimed that the ‘chassis’ for a single-storey house can be built in a day.
WikiHouse co-designer Alastair Parvin said, "The open secret is that in reality almost everything we today call architecture is actually design for the 1%....The challenge facing the next generation of architects is how, for the first time, we will make our client not the 1% but the 100%."
To date, completed projects have tended to be small, single-storey prototypes.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- 3D concrete printer.
- 3D printing in construction.
- BRE Üserhuus.
- British post-war mass housing.
- Building information modelling.
- Computer aided design.
- Computer aided manufacturing.
- Custom build home.
- Flying factory.
- Kit house.
- Modular buildings.
- Off-site prefabrication of buildings: A guide to connection choices.
- Open source architectural plans for modular buildings.
- Prefabrication.
- Self-build home.
- Self-build home project plan.
- Y:Cube development in Mitcham.
Featured articles and news
Embedding AI tools into architectural education
Beyond the render: LMU share how student led research is shaping the future of visualisation workflows.
Why document control still fails UK construction projects
A Chartered Quantity Surveyor explains what needs to change and how.
New planning reforms and Warm Homes Bill
Take centre stage at UK Construction Week London.
A brief run down of changes intentions from April in an onwards.
Reslating an ancient water mill
A rare opportunity to record, study and repair early vernacular roofs.
CIOB Apprentice of the Year 2025/26
Construction apprentice from Lincoln Mia Owen wins this years title.
Insulation solutions with less waste for a circular economy
Rob Firman, Technical and Specification Manager, Polyfoam XPS explains.
Recycled waste plastic in construction
Hierarchy, prevention to disposal, plastic types and approaches.
UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard V1 published
Free-to-access technical standard to enable robust proof of a decarbonising built environment.
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
Why talking about prostate cancer matters in construction.
The Architectural Technology podcast: Where it's AT
Catch up for free, subscribe and share with your network.
The Association of Consultant Architects recap
A reintroduction and recap of ACA President; Patrick Inglis' Autumn update.
The Home Energy Model and its wrappers
From SAP to HEM, EPC for MEES and FHS assessment wrappers.
Future Homes Standard Essentials launched
Future Homes Hub launches new campaign to help sector prepare for the implementation of new building standards.
Building Safety recap February, 2026
Our regular run-down of key building safety related events of the month.
Planning reform: draft NPPF and industry responses.
Last chance to comment on proposed changes to the NPPF.
A Regency palace of colour and sensation. Book review.