Stackable Single Family House concept, designed by Russian-based LCA Contemporary Architecture Lab for the 3^rd International Architecture Competition for Sustainable Housing, is centred on the ability to upgrade housing by simply "docking" new modules to the existing housing structure. In essence, as the family grows and changes, the owner is able to add new modules to the existing housing structure for expanded living space.

"When we were preparing our design for this competition we thought a lot about flexibility and about the possibilities to adapt the house to the environment and to the growing needs of the people," said Grigory Kuzhelev, who developed the concept in partner with LCA architect Galina Budnikova.

The basic housing consists of two fundamental modules, A and B:

Module A offers a quick to construct, framed two-storey module of 72 m, built from prefabricated, factory-fit parts. LCA foresees that Module A would be manufactured using existing steel-frame making technology and could be constructed of heat-insulated components

Module B is a two-storey metal wire frame using uprights of square section 160х160 channel beams. It forms a two-level stackable structure of 6 х 18 meters that can attach to Module A to expand the original house. This wire frame allows the setting up of additional rooms on the second level, addition of a wintergarden, garage, terrace, and even provide the construction for a roof terrace.

The two modules together provide a platform for infinite variations according to the owner's tastes and needs. In presenting to the jury for the 3^rd Competition presentations in Helsinki, LCA showcased four different versions to demonstrate the concept's ability to flexibly accommodate a variety of requirements. To see the different versions, click on the Summary Brief link below.

Model A and B combine to form one floor plan that can be added to yet again over time.

"I think that no matter the location or culture, a house, in general, is very important for all people all over the world," said Kuzhelev. "We, as architects, have to create an architecture which not only serves the ethnic needs of the people, but is the kind of house that people enjoy living in over time."

See Summary Brief

View the architect's biography.

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