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Low Cost Design

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Abiy Andualem
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15 views

Low Cost Design

Uploaded by

Abiy Andualem
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Low-Cost Design

1. Definition with Historical Background (Evolution of


the Concept)

Definition:
- Low-cost design focuses on creating affordable solutions for
architectural projects without compromising essential quality,
functionality, and sustainability. This design philosophy addresses the
economic constraints of clients and communities, emphasizing efficient
use of resources, local materials, and simplified construction
techniques.

Historical Background:
- Ancient Practices: The concept of low-cost design has roots in
vernacular architecture, where communities relied on locally available
materials such as mud, bamboo, and timber to construct homes and
infrastructure. These designs were inherently economical and
sustainable.
- Industrial Revolution: The 19th-century Industrial Revolution
introduced prefabrication and modular construction techniques,
reducing construction costs significantly.
- Post-War Reconstruction (1940s-50s): After World War II, there
was an urgent need for affordable housing. Prefabrication, mass
production, and innovative materials (like reinforced concrete) played
a vital role in addressing housing crises in war-torn regions.
- Modern Era: In the late 20th century, architects like Laurie Baker in
India revolutionized low-cost architecture by advocating for sustainable
and vernacular materials. In recent decades, low-cost design has
expanded to include disaster-resilient and energy-efficient buildings for
underserved communities.
2. Trends and Practices (Applications)

Global Trends:
-Use of Local Materials: Reduces transportation costs and promotes
community involvement. Examples include bamboo, adobe, and
compressed earth blocks.
- Prefabrication and Modular Construction: Prefabricated panels
and modular components reduce on-site labor costs and speed up
construction.
- Community-Based Design: Involves local communities in planning
and construction, reducing costs while addressing cultural and
practical needs.
- Sustainability Integration: Incorporates solar panels, rainwater
harvesting, and natural ventilation to lower operational costs.
Tiny Homes Movement:

- Designing compact, efficient living spaces that maximize


functionality while minimizing costs.

Local Practices:
- Rammed Earth and CSEB (Compressed Stabilized Earth
Blocks): Used in rural areas for cost-effective construction.
- Recycled Materials: Materials like steel, tires, and glass bottles are
often repurposed in low-cost housing projects.
- DIY Housing Initiatives: Programs that empower individuals to
construct their homes using pre-designed kits or plans.

Applications:
- Affordable housing for low-income families.
- Emergency shelters for disaster-stricken areas.
- Schools, clinics, and community centers in underserved regions.
- Public spaces, such as parks and amphitheaters, using cost-effective
materials.
3. Contrasting Theories (According to Different
Scholars)

Laurie Baker (India):


- Advocated for low-cost, sustainable architecture emphasizing local
materials and passive design. Believed in the "Gandhian" philosophy of
minimalism: designing for necessity and simplicity. Encouraged
reducing waste and reusing construction materials.

Hassan Fathy (Egypt):


- Focused on vernacular architecture and low-cost housing for rural
communities. Pioneered the use of adobe mud brick construction in
projects like New Gourna Village. Stressed community participation
and cultural relevance.
Charles Correa (India):
- Advocated for low-cost urban housing that addressed issues of
density and climate. Promoted incremental housing, where
homeowners could expand as resources allowed.

Modern Critics:
-Some scholars argue that while low-cost designs meet affordability
criteria, they often face challenges in scalability and long-term
durability. Concerns exist about the aesthetic appeal and social
acceptance of such designs in urban contexts.

4. Case Studies (Practically Applied Realities of


the Thematic Study)

1. Aranya Low-Cost Housing, Indore, India


- Architect: Balkrishna Doshi
- Details:
- Houses over 80,000 people in 6,500 dwellings.
- Designed as a modular system where homeowners can expand and
customize over time.
- Materials used include concrete and brick, ensuring affordability and
durability.
- Features narrow streets to promote a sense of community while
optimizing land use.
- Key Achievement: A globally recognized example of scalable, low-
cost housing.

2. Makoko Floating School, Lagos, Nigeria


- Architect: NLÉ (Kunlé Adeyemi)
- Details:
- A prototype structure designed for low-income, water-based
communities.
- Constructed using locally available wood and recycled materials.
- The floating structure uses plastic barrels for buoyancy, adapting to
fluctuating water levels.
- Functions as both a school and community center.
- Key Achievement: Combines low-cost materials with innovative
design to address climate resilience.
3. Gando Primary School, Burkina Faso
- Architect: Diébédo Francis Kéré
- Details:
- Built using local clay and compressed stabilized earth blocks.
- Designed to provide natural ventilation and reduce reliance on air
conditioning.
- Involves the local community in construction to minimize costs.
- Key Achievement: Won the Aga Khan Award for Architecture for
blending low-cost solutions with high aesthetic and functional quality.
4. Incremental Housing, Chile (Elemental Studio)
- Architects: Alejandro Aravena and Elemental
- Details:
- Designed as "half-a-house" units where families can expand as
resources allow.
- Initial structures include essential components like kitchens and
bathrooms.
- Focuses on improving living standards gradually and affordably.
- Key Achievement: A replicable model for low-cost housing globally.

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