Rural Studio: Narrow Margins

[Left: Narrow Margins Dwelling Prototype, Right: Typical low-cost Shack]

Rural Studio is a student-led US practice which aims to suggest new paradigms, and methods of doing things for marginalised and impoverished clients.

This particular project; Narrow Margins, is an ultra low-cost housing prototype, providing 'an easily replicable, low-maintenance, energy efficient alternative' to the substandard shacks or trailers typical of rural Alabama.

The dwellings can be produced for $20,000 US (approximately $21,000 AUD), and features an open plan layout and a double height living room. Above the bathroom is a sleeping loft, while the raised platform foundations can adapt to different terrain.

The project is very similar to the Castle project at the UTAS School of Architecture & Design, which shares a similar layout, budget and set of goals.

Thanks to Loren for this one, and for sending me a PDF with more information about the project, including an exploded projection and cost breakdown, available here.