Half a House

Concept Origins

The concept of incremental housing emerged as a response to global urban migration and housing shortages. Roman Mars explains how the architecture firm Elemental, led by Alejandro Aravena, developed a radical approach by providing half-built homes to disaster victims and low-income families in Chile 1. This method allows residents to gradually complete their homes, fostering a sense of ownership and community investment. George Cotoni, an architect influenced by John FC. Turner, highlights the importance of residents being co-creators of their living spaces, stating that housing should be an ongoing project 2.

Housing ought not be a static unit that is packaged and just handed over to people. Rather, housing should be conceived of as an ongoing project wherein residents are co-creators.

--- John FC. Turner

This approach has been recognized globally, with Aravena receiving the prestigious Pritzker Prize for his socially engaged architecture 1.

   

Global Applications

Incremental housing projects have been implemented worldwide, showcasing their adaptability and effectiveness. George Cotoni has led such projects in Latin America, Kenya, and Indonesia, providing basic structures that residents can expand over time 3. This method empowers communities by allowing them to build and own their homes, tailored to their needs and resources. Juan Ignacio Cerda, a principal architect at Elemental, emphasizes that these projects are not about creating finished homes but about providing a foundation for growth and improvement 3.

We didn't create the idea, actually, we import that to make something that can be improved by time.

--- Juan Ignacio Cerda

Elemental's work in Chile, particularly after the 2010 earthquake, demonstrates the potential of incremental housing to address urgent housing needs while fostering community resilience 3.

   

Social Impact

The social impact of incremental housing is profound, as it transforms residents into active participants in their housing journey. Roman Mars shares stories from Villa Verde, where residents like Luis Enriquez have turned basic structures into comfortable homes, enhancing their quality of life 4. This model not only provides shelter but also encourages entrepreneurship, with some residents using their extra space for small businesses. Dr. Jennifer Stoloff, an expert in housing policy, acknowledges the innovative nature of this approach but also notes the potential risks involved, such as safety concerns during construction 4.

It is very bootstrappy, it's true, but it's also very risky. I mean, and I mean in a safety way, not just in a financial way.

--- Dr. Jennifer Stoloff

Despite these challenges, the sense of ownership and community investment fostered by incremental housing is undeniable, making it a compelling model for addressing housing crises 4.