STUDENTS from Robert Gordon University’s Scott Sutherland School of Architecture and Built Environment have designed a series of affordable houses as part of a project with Grampian Housing Association.
The students were tasked with creating three types of accommodation to cater for a single person, a couple and a small family – with sustainability and the most efficient use of energy at the core of the design.
The university said that among the key features of the homes, dubbed Tiny Houses, was the reduction in project costs through the self-assembly construction of the builds, as well as the clever storage areas incorporated in the designs.
The proposals will now form part of a competition, which will allow for the public to vote on their favourite projects with the winners being decided upon by members of the Grampian Housing Association and the academic team at RGU’s Scott Sutherland School.
Dr Amar Bennadji, lecture in architecture at RGU, commented, “A tiny house movement is spreading worldwide to achieve a decent living space without the financial burden, and we felt this was an ideal opportunity for our students to work on a live project which could have positive implications for the local community.
“It has been great to work alongside Grampian housing Association on the project. This experience of designing an affordable dwelling could be a long-time solution to provide shelter and preserve people’s dignity by offering them just what they need.”
Neil Clapperton, chief executive of Grampian Housing Association, added, “The project is completely aligned to our objectives of providing affordable sustainable homes to meet people’s housing needs. It is an enlightening experience being involved in the project and the high quality of work of the students is to be commended.”
