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] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- 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.
[edit] External references
Featured articles and news
Read about Belgrade's Brutalist landmark - the Western City Gate.
Clean indoor air for healthy living
Read about the measures that can be taken by individuals to protect and minimise exposure to outdoor sourced air pollution.
Government announces leaseholds on new-build houses will be banned.
Transport Secretary announces public consultation into London's funding of Crossrail 2.
Architecture of concert stages
Have a look at some of the most impressive concert stage designs of all time, including Pink Floyd, U2, Rolling Stones, and more...
What is the Home Quality Mark? Find out how it can help you when buying/renting a new home.
Business Secretary launches £246m Faraday Challenge to establish UK as world leader in battery technology.
Government announces new plans for regulations to improve safety and security awareness of drone users.
Read our introductory article to the various different types of fuel.
IHBC book review: Charles Barry’s monumental struggle to rebuild the Houses of Parliament.
Read about RSHP's British Museum extension which has been shortlisted for the 2017 Stirling Prize.
Read our introductory article to building a house extension.
More updates from DCMS about the large-scale testing of cladding systems and the number of buildings affected.
UandI secure resolution to grant planning consent for major new regeneration project.
Grenfell Tower articles updated daily
