MINIMOD – A Prefab Off-Grid House by MAPA Architects

This tiny house, called the MINIPOD has been designed by MAPA Architects. The MINIPOD is a self-sufficient, off-grid dwelling that consists of four modules; a bedroom, bathroom, living room and dining room (which also contains the kitchen).

Each house is fabricated in a factory. Once the assembly of the house is completed, the MINIMOD is transported to the owner’s site, where it arrives as a “ready-to-go” living unit. Due to the prefabrication process, the houses are fully customizable and – due to their modular design – expandable to your needs.

The large openings on the three sides of the basic model provide a connection with the exterior environment, while also ensuring ample interior natural lighting and ventilation. The exterior of the unit is clad with recycled wood, whereas the interior is clad entirely in pine plywood.

The MINIMOD that’s shown in the pictures comes with its own rainwater harvester that’s been incorporated into its green roof. Rainwater from the roof can be filtered and recycled for use as grey water in the home. While it’s said to be an off-grid home, there’s no mention of solar panels being used to provide for the MINIMOD’s electrical needs, although it wouldn’t be much of a challenge to introduce the system.

The unit is just 280 square feet in size (26 square meters). The entire structure is raised off of the ground, preventing issues related to moisture ingress, and at night the interior is lit by efficient LED lighting.

The MINIMOD is an innovative modular dwelling that provides people with the option to live in a green space that can be tailored to their own specific needs.

UPDATE: After contacting MINIMOD about their tiny house they provided me with the following info regarding costs:

“The MINIMOD presented is a prototype of a minimum modular retreat. Its all built in lightweight steel frame and enclosed by plywood panelling and glass. It has 2.4×9.6m intern, whitch means 4 modules of 2.4×2.4m.

You will be able to choose any size from 3 modules or more. We are evolving to improve this product, regarding it’s functionality, materiality, costs and production times. Although there is no production yet, our forecast is for the first quarter of this year (2014).

In any case, the price may vary according to the client’s needs – module sizes, selected materials and etc. Today, as per the showed model, we reference the cost of R$ 2,500.00 per square meter (about U$ 1,000) and production time is up to 45 days.

All shipping costs are apart. Please be aware that all site works (land fills or land removal, water and electricity supplies, foundations are not included on prices above) – all the infrastructure is apart -We will deliver all the projects and specifications – but clients will have to hire those services locally.

Basic furniture like the kitchen, toiletry and wardrobe joinery are included. You will also be able to customize the façade – options will be available very soon in MINIMOD’s webstore.”

For more prefab and off-grid homes check out House Arc by Bellomo Architects – a modern micro-home designed for a variety of situations, including disaster relief. Or this modern 290 square foot house by ÁBATON that can be delivered to your chosen location as a ready-to-go home. See all off-grid.

Via Inhabitat
Photos: Leonardo Finotti