Wiki House | Architecture 00

Built to coincide with the launch of London Design Festival 2014, WikiHouse4.0 is the world’s first open source two-storey house that anyone can download, digitally manufacture and assemble for themselves in days with no construction skills. A two storey WikiHouse can be constructed for under £50,000.

The installation led by Arup, The Building Centre and Zero Zero Design raises awareness about the current housing crisis and issues a disruptive challenge about how new technology can enable anyone to build their own affordable house without the need for conventional construction skills.

Visitors will be able to explore the house, including the second-storey roof terrace, and learn how the project came together. Lighting, sensors and ventilation can all be controlled by visitors using their smart phone or tablet connected to the WikiHouseWiFi using a browser-based, control system developed especially for the project.

Alastair Parvin, WikiHouse co-designer at 00 design studio said “What we are trying to do with this installation is to spark people’s imagination about how technology can now enable almost anyone to afford their own custom-built house without the need for conventional construction skills.

“We don’t believe that WikiHouse is the only solution to the current housing crisis, but we do want to host a disruptive debate and challenge landowners, urban planners and policy makers to think differently about the barriers - such as land or building costs.”

Nina Tabink, Arup, Senior Structural Engineer commented, “A digital world is emerging where people can connect with anyone around the globe through a simple click. Arup believes in the potential of digital fabrication and open source technology and how this will provide an alternative collaborative way of working, bringing increased efficiencies. WikiHouse has proven to be a perfect partner to explore these new technologies.”