Home as Process

Susan Emerson

The critical analysis of this MDP focused on the single-family house as both an icon of the American Dream and a product of consumer culture, suggesting that acceptance of the suburban ideal is crumbling in part due to a growing recognition that environmentally, socially, politically and economically the suburban paradigm is problematic.

In response, and as an alternative to the single-family suburban house, a housing typology was developed for redevelopment of Calgary’s older inner-city residential lots, typically 25 x 120 ft. A hybrid, part row house, part loft, the dwellings are designed to be suitable for a variety of households, including singles, and couples, with or without children. Additionally, the strategy attempts a certain degree of adaptability that will allow occupants greater freedom over many design aspects within each dwelling. The intention is to achieve a balance between individual design that suits preferences and lifestyles, and the framework of a housing typology that is responsive to the contemporary urban context.

1. garage   2. courtyard   3. living   4. office/studio/study   5. kitchen   6. sleeping

Susan Emerson is a recent graduate of the MArch programme at the University of Calgary.