These 3D printed micro-neighborhoods were proposed by Farmlab as a potential solution to New York's rising population of homeless people as well as the city's lack of affordable housing.
The hexagonal units were designed to be connected to a scaffold structure, offering a cost-effective and flexible living environment. The small but comfortable nooks offer a wide range of amenities for the individual, including outlets, smart mood lighting, ample storage space, lockable entrances and an integrated health monitoring system. The rooms are made to be highly customizable, providing designers with the opportunity to create an array of different units, including spaces with study nooks, mini lofts or an en-suite bathroom.
The clustered units feature a unique shape which can aid to a cityscape, featuring digitized external panels, which can display information or advertisements for those passing by. Photo Credits: designboom, farmlab.ie
3D-Printed Micro-Neighborhoods
These Hexagonal Units are Proposed as a Housing Crisis Solution
Trend Themes
1. 3D Printed Housing - Opportunity for 3D printing technology to disrupt traditional housing construction methods as a more affordable and customizable alternative.
2. Modular Living Structures - Opportunity for prefabricated modular units to disrupt traditional housing construction methods while offering a flexible and scalable solution for urban living.
3. Smart Home Technology in Affordable Housing - Opportunity for integrating smart home technology into affordable housing to improve living conditions while incorporating health monitoring and energy efficiency.
Industry Implications
1. Construction - Potential to disrupt traditional methods of construction with the use of 3D printing and modular designs.
2. Real Estate - Opportunity for real estate companies to explore innovative solutions for affordable housing while incorporating cutting-edge technologies for a more efficient and sustainable future.
3. Smart Home Technology - Opportunity for smart home technology companies to partner with affordable housing providers for the integration of IoT devices that can monitor energy consumption and improve living standards.