Serial Housing
Year:
2024
Koning Willem 1 College:
2nd Year
Project:
5
The Serial Housing project focused on designing a modular residential block based on existing prefab housing models from Heijmans. The goal was to create a repeating and efficient building layout by using mirrored and copied elements. Throughout the project, I explored how massing, modularity, and smart floorplan grouping can be used to design a flexible and efficient housing block.
PROJECT OBJECTIVE
The objective was to design a modular and efficient housing block for a completely new residential district. By developing repeatable elements and smart group systems, the project focused on creating a flexible design approach that speeds up the planning process while maintaining a clear and consistent architectural identity.
APPROACH & PROCESS
The project began with analyzing different housing types and studying prefab concepts from Heijmans. I created multiple massing studies in SketchUp to explore how the housing block could be formed using mirrored and repeatable elements. Together with Ilse, I developed early paper sketches and foam mass models to define the overall layout of the district. After that, I refined the visual design concepts and created both the floorplans and the façades in AutoCAD, using smart group systems that allowed units to be quickly copied and adapted throughout the block.
CHALLENGES
A challenge in this project was finding the right balance between creativity and modular efficiency. While the housing block needed repeated elements, the design still had to look varied and visually interesting. Another challenge was developing group systems that were flexible enough for adjustments without breaking the layout.
OUTCOME
The final result was a complete modular housing concept, including massing models, paper and foam studies, refined design visuals, and AutoCAD floorplans and façades built with grouped components. The system allowed the residential block to be assembled quickly using repeated and mirrored units based on Heijmans prefab principles.
REFLECTION
This project strengthened my understanding of modular design and the importance of efficient planning systems. I learned how massing, grouping, and prefab logic can speed up the design process while keeping the architecture consistent. It also helped me work more confidently with SketchUp, Gimp, and floorplan structuring.
GALLERY
