Using a block on 快活视频\u2019s Gay Street as a site, teams of 2-3 students are conceptually designing various types of multi-unit, mixed-use housing structures in the heart of the city. Teams are challenged to design-in better space use and energy efficiency while introducing lower construction costs and economic benefits to the occupants.<\/p>\n
In all, teams are designing microhousing, co-housing, energy-plus housing, live\/work housing and urban farms. Each type must provide financial benefits while addressing challenges with site, culture, climate and demographics to achieve quality-of-life solutions.<\/p>\n \u201cMy group decided to tackle this mission by employing an \u2018Energy Plus\u2019 design strategy and modular construction methods,\u201d said student Jared Mullins. \u201cThese units are effectively self-sufficient in both energy use and energy production\u2026and partnered with the modular construction, allow for the adaptation of the building to fit the needs of its inhabitants throughout its lifetime.\u201d<\/p>\n Students are learning to look to architecture for ways to address issues in society to improve quality of life.<\/p>\n \u201cI believe that it is not only important for architecture to address needs in society, but it also is our responsibility as designers to identify problems and make decisions to better enhance the lives of others,\u201d Mullins said. \u201cMy favorite thing about architecture is that it is not partial to one person over another; in fact, it becomes a unifier between different cultures, beliefs and ideals. The scope of our work stretches far beyond the walls of a building, reaching out into the community to engage the needs of others.\u201d<\/p>\n![\"headshot](\"http:\/\/archdesign.utk.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/Jared-Mullins-Headshot-1024x782.png\")
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