Byker OSB Housing

About this project

This housing prototype was developed for a RIBA Journal competition looking into the potential for Norbord OSB as a product for creating affordable housing. Working with the material the architects' proposal pushed the material in terms of providing shelter, structure and form within a 4.8×4.8m module that allowed for interlocking units.

The way the units tessellate presents a private space available to each unit proving a density of 115 units per hectare. Mawson Kerr chose a brown field site in Byker to show how the units could be planned forming a new community complex on unused plots of land. CNC techniques are utilised to give minimal waste and allow construction on site by relatively unskilled labour.

The design went on to win the competition with discussions ongoing to develop the prototype for affordable housing

Awards

Winner RIBA Journal Habitat Award

Further information

Mawson Kerr