Affordable housing for artists: a sustainable prototype

Abstract

<p>Although many architects and builders feel that designing for both sustainability and affordability is impossible, I believe that the only way we can afford to live is sustainably. Through the design of housing for artists, this project will demonstrate how a building can both meet the needs of its inhabitants and practice sustainable principles in a beautiful design. This Austin, Texas model can be used as a prototype for similar housing in other cities and for other environmentally friendly buildings. Sustainability is a crucial issue worldwide, but especially for the United States. This project investigates means to design a building that uses as little energy as possible while maintaining a high quality of life. Local, low-energy products and systems are utilized. Daylighting, passive solar heating and water heating utilize the sun's energy. Among other sustainable practices, daylighting, passive solar heating, natural ventilation, and xeriscaping will be integral to the design of the artists' community.;Looking beyond the narrow view of architecture as merely form manipulation to a broader base which considers the needs of the building's inhabitants and its impact on the earth, in addition to its form, is essential. This project aims to help artists achieve a quality lifestyle by providing a space where they can afford to live and produce their art. By creating a community in harmony with nature, I hope to encourage the artists to preserve this harmony in their work. The struggle for artists to earn a living is a common theme throughout the history of art. The shortage of affordable housing in American cities further contributes to their plight. My goal is to create housing that is efficient, less expensive to operate, and therefore, more affordable. This project studies different types of community living and precedents for both artist housing and affordable housing in the US. My design for a community of 16-21 artists pushes these models further in the direction of energy efficiency without sacrificing their beauty or socio-cultural significance.</p>