by JBAD

aParkment is a conceptual proposal that, in preparation for a post-pandemic world, contemplates new paradigms of mobility and housing and reconsiders the utility and ownership of urban space. As we (eventually) re-enter and reclaim a world more or less normal than our current beleaguered state, we have unique and transformative opportunities to rethink, reevaluate and reinvent ourselves, our habits and our environment. Opportunities to question norms way can lead the way to very different outcomes; opportunities to create more, and more varied, housing models can help increase attainability and reduce costs. All of this with the promise of more relevancy, more utility and more justice.
The aParkment assumes everyone in post-pandemic America still drives and parks and works, and drives and parks and works. But it also questions the normal accommodations for this practice and challenges the wisdom of the ubiquitous parking lot as we know it. In this scenario the single-use surface parking lot with limited public benefit is targeted for stand-alone residential interventions: prefabricated, serially produced machines for living colonize the realm of the car.
A 3 story assembly of structural steel, light-gauge metal framing and standard metal cladding is elevated above 2 parking spaces and provides standard-issue housing for an individual or couple. Conventional living and sleeping spaces, a rooftop terrace and one parking space are provided. The occupied spaces are provided within a simple, rational box with a semi-enclosed, externalized stair structure adjacent. The units are configured with 3 blind sides and a single front opening of full height glass to promote easy combination in multiples. The industrial objects can be utilized singularly or clustered or dispersed throughout the property.
The unit is semi-autonomous, relying only on the existing electric grid available from on-site line electric above and access to the storm drainage system below (both existing conditions of most parking lots). The HVAC system is a simple electric heat pump system (with a roof mounted coil and an air handler at the ground level). Potable water is delivered and stored on-site and solid waste is separated and stored on-site and shipped out for agricultural reuse. Filtered graywater is introduced into the stormwater system. The green roof manages quality and quantity of stormwater. Site prep requirements are minimal and support the transient nature of the units: Four concrete pier foundations, along with an underground connection to the stormwater system.
Category:Sustainable HousesYear:2023Location:N/AArchitects:JBADLead Architect: Jonathan BarnesDesign Team: Jonathan BarnesClient: PrivatePhotographer: Courtesy of the Architects