Stilt Studios showcased the Tetra Pod prefab tiny home in Uluwatu, Bali. The small prefab home uses recycled Tetra Pack cardboard boxes, which is what it takes its name from. The material is used for the walls and roof. The project makes a huge contribution to the circular economy.
Tetra Pod is 64 square meters. All elements are made of wood, steel, glass and recycled materials. The architects aimed to integrate this prefab into the environment and use the natural characteristics of recycled materials. The layout involves exciting spaces arranged diagonally, which logically connect with the exterior. The house has a good balance between open facades and interior space, which makes the micro-house elegant and spacious.
“We believe that architects have a responsibility in many ways, reducing the environmental impact of our buildings and making these projects accessible to everyone. Not only can we reduce the overall volume of material used and the footprint of buildings, but we can also make architecture part of a circular economy through the choice of material used. We can also offer building plans that are affordable,” explains Alexis Dornier, co-founder and chief designer of Stilt Studios.
The design of the sloping roof directs rainwater through a special structural system into a reservoir: it can then be used to irrigate the surrounding garden. Through openings that fit tightly to the canopy, the building is provided with a passive cooling system.
The home features a comfortable bedroom, bathroom, open kitchen and living area, and several outdoor terraces. The nine-point foundation raises the Tetra Pod 40 cm off the ground, allowing for comfortable seating on the porch. Large façade panels can be opened (allowing for cross ventilation) to create a completely open space. There is also a custom furniture system for a cozy dining and living space.
The Tetra Pod project is the second of its kind for the studio. Such a property poses relevant questions: how much space do we really need to feel comfortable? What is it like to live in the forest and be close to nature again, leaving behind status and urban habits? The construction of such a prefab takes only 8 weeks, as most of the elements are prefabricated. Such structures mean that most parts are manufactured off-site, which saves construction time, reduces waste and improves quality and costs due to economies of scale.
“We feel, especially in times of pandemic, that many people are looking for alternative living spaces. Tetra Pod can be used as a full-fledged studio for living, and several of these buildings can be turned into a hotel or a resort. It can also be a simple tiny house in your garden, can be used as a workspace, a yoga pavilion, etc.,” the architects add.
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