Launch Pads – A Generational Response to Urban Housing
Launch Pads – A Generational Response to Urban Housing
SUMMARY OF RESEARCH
This research studied compact housing from around the globe, and teased out the design principles responsible for their success or failure. The team identified and developed a series of architectural typologies for smart-sized housing based on area, volume, glazing, facade, finishes, furniture, etc.
The research also studied the target markets and the product placement of such housing. Following were the key motives:
1. DEFINE A LAUNCHPAD
2. ASSESS DEMAND FOR LAUNCHPAD HOMES
3. IDENTIFY TYPOLOGIES OF LAUNCHPAD HOMES
Launchpads (aka. micro-house) are envisioned as smart-sized dwellings that minimize design inefficiency and adapt to the number of residents, their lifestyle, and various occupancies throughout the day. Launchpads improve the living experience by maximizing floor area, enclosed volume, views, and glazing, finishes, furniture, outdoor amenities, proximity to downtown, ease of commute, etc. Launchpad prototypes range in area from 300 to 450 sq. ft. depending on the location and the cultural acceptance of compact spaces.
An increase in the number of millennials entering the workforce and forming households has led to a corresponding increase in the demand for micro-housing. Most of this generation tend to rent rather than buy and frequently move to follow better opportunities. This demographic also tends to value “authentic” and transit-rich urban locations that also encourage walkability. Delayed marriage and household formation, along with high student debt and lower income than previous generations, makes launchpad housing a perfect fit for this generation of home seekers.
RESEARCH TEAM
Jacob GineS
Becky Hawkins
Basil Harb
Scott Smith
Jeff Lonardo
Associate Principal, Method Studio
Partner, Method Studio
Principal, Method Studio
Senior Associate, Method Studio
Senior Associate, Method Studio
ABOUT omkar
Omkar Prabhu is a fourth-year architecture student at Mississippi State University and is originally from Mumbai, India. Having grown up in one of the most populous urban centers in the world, Omkar is no stranger to dense, efficient living conditions – bringing his passion for “smart living” and design innovation directly to this project . In November 2016, Omkar presented the research to senior leadership at Method Studio.