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
Listed despite problems with its design.
Zen and the art of cycling exploration.
Design Council Homes Taskforce launched
To support government 1.5 million homes target within UK climate commitments.
The story of this knowledge quarter building.
In ecology, in hydrology, in biology and in architecture.
Creating environments that promote physical, mental, and social well-being.
UK cases of neutral current diversion
Research project looks for example contributions.
Overstocking and macro-economics cause a decline.
The 2024 update of the Common Assessment Standard
Demonstrating organisational capability’ to fulfil roles under the Building Safety Act.
56 recommendations for a better built environment
Published by the CIC ahead of the King’s Speech.
SkillELECTRIC Top 8 Competitors Named
in annual search for the UK’s best student electrician.
CIOB Diversity and Inclusion technical information sheet
Step-by-step guide on implementing D and I practices.
Conservation and the Indian City. Book review.
Reversibility in conservation ethics
Learning from painting conservation.
Where It's AT Podcast launched!
New CIAT Architectural Technology Podcast goes live.