Work on a live-in housing laboratory, where architectural innovations can be tested on residents, has begun in Sweden.
January 2016 is the move-in date for the singles, couples and families who will take up residence in the modular building (pictured) in a research programme that will last 10 years.
Billed as a research arena for housing of the future, the HSB Living Lab consists of 44 flexible modules assembled in Gothenburg, Sweden, on the campus of Chalmers University of Technology.
This is far from being a typical building project. The aim of this living laboratory is to invert the concept of how we can reside and live sustainably in our everyday lives– Emma Sarin, project manager
As many as 35 students and guest researchers of all ages and nationalities will live in 25 apartments while conducting round-the-clock research into the effects of new materials, design approaches and technologies.
The building has been designed by architecture firm Tengbom to facilitate the research, allowing exchangeable façades and modular interior and exterior components.
Researchers say the building will change over time through and its effects on people analysed.
Tengbom is working with HSB, a cooperative housing association, as well as Chalmers University of Technology and Rice University.
Work building the modules began last week.
Project manager Emma Sarin commented: “This is far from being a typical building project. The aim of this living laboratory is to invert the concept of how we can reside and live sustainably in our everyday lives.”
Photograph: Artist’s render of the HSB Living Lab, Sweden (Tengbom)
