4. Material Collective

Commodified housing relies on an individual ownership model with fixed spatial and material boundaries. Static material boundaries tie all elements of a building to a single lifespan and limit the material agency of future residents. Alternatively, this co-housing prototype seeks to extend material lifespans through circular use and promote flexible boundaries that eliminate permanent, private ownership of units. An on-site material bank and workshop facilitates a community of craftsmen that experiment with flexible construction methods. Through this material changeability, the boundaries of individual units and shared spaces are regularly redefined within a fixed logic of modularity, structure, and systems. Elements ranging from furniture to entire wall systems can be moved to accommodate seasonal changes, growing families, or social activities.

Collaborative project with Katie Lau.