Contemporary typologies of urban small-scale housing with mid-density were examined in the UrbAsu project. A special focus was placed on new concepts found in Central European housing. The results of the research were summarized as 20 solutions in six categories. They were published as a model book called Talopaletti (House Palette). A design course for architectural students was included in the project.
Background
To many Finns, living in a single-family house is still the most preferred way of housing. However, Finland is urbanising rapidly and the conventional way of constructing free-standing single-family houses in relatively large suburban plots is no longer possible nor desirable. Townhouses and other more urban solutions applicable to growing cities are urgently needed.
Goal
The project contained three parts. The first part consisted of the design course for architecture students with the task to design a type house for dense urban settings. A review of the current megatrends as well as building technology and production processes applied in the small-scale housing production formed the second part. The third part consisted of a profound study and analysis of existing European small-scale urban housing.
Funding source
PTT The Finnish Association for Manufacturers of Prefebricated Housing, the Finnish Housing Fare Co-operative, the City of Tampere, the Ministry of the Environment, Rakennustuotteiden Laatu Säätiö
Contact persons
Jyrki Tarpio
Project researcher
jyrki.tarpio [at] tut.fi
+358 50 324 2356
Tommi Teronen
Project researcher
tommi.teronen [at] tut.fi
+358 40 550 7146