14.8.2020

Piiri Modular living unit

Piiri is designed to allow one person to live, work, rest, cook and clean in a minimum space of 11 square meters. The project is intended not simply as a single house, but rather as a modular system which can be expanded incrementally depending to fit various locations and needs.

A radial grid of 4 sq-m2 modules produces a circular plan in which various configurations are possible. The smallest version of the system includes only two units, but additional units may be added for storage, planting, terrace space, guest rooms or even a sauna.

The modules are constructed of thin plywood and structural timber with an insulation layer of recycled paper. The exterior claddings are pre-finished with semi-transparent paint.

The minimal space puts high demands on the interior design so lighting, storage and kitchen utilities have been integrated into the surfaces to minimize the number of obstructions.

The walls are finished in birch plywood with spruce battens and an integrated LED lighting system lining the curved surfaces.

The end walls contain a system of pegs, lighting and shelves which can be easily modified for various functions. All interior surfaces are finished with white transparent oil-wax and the floor is constructed of white plywood parquet.

www.piirihouse.wordpress.com

Project in brief

Piiri Modular living unit

  • Location | Hyvinkää
  • Purpose | Summer house
  • Constructor/Client | Aalto University Wood Program 2012–2013
  • Total area | 11 m2
  • Architectural Design | Wood Program 2012
  • Structural design | Aalto University Wood Program 2012–2013
  • Photographs | Anne Kinnunen
  • Text | Pekka Heikkinen