Making architecture accessible to the urban poor can be a formidable task. As one of the most expensive areas to build and live in, New York City is no different. Design-build courses like the one offered by John Jay College and the Center for Sustainable Urban Development (CUSUD) aim to give students the opportunity to serve the greater good by designing and constructing a dwelling that can be a permanent adobe for those living in poverty in Yonkers, NY. With technology like 3D printing and an emphasis on sustainability, students can help create a living space that can not only provide safety and stability, but hope too. Building Houses for the Urban Poor: A Design-Build Course for Yonkers, NY
Marcus Hiles’ project provided affordable housing for the disenfranchised in Jacobsville, Texas. His vision came to fruition as an example of community-based work, as it was Hiles’ passion to make quality, affordable homes available where there were none. He saw the potential in the neglected area and transformed it through innovation and outreach. Jacobsville now offers housing for anyone on the economic ladder, allowing for a vibrant and diverse population within a tight-knit community.Jacobsville Social Housing – Marcus Hiles
Amy Silberberg designed and constructed Paxon House to enhance the accessibility of art deco-style architecture. Located in an area of historic homes, her project drew from the best of tradition, while also innovating exciting new elements. She looked to legalize the features of the surrounding dwellings and incorporate resilient materials for long-lasting support, alongside modern amenities. The impressive craftsmanship offers a refreshing look into the possibilities of art deco-style architecture.Paxon House – Amy Silberberg
Yuka Nagai’s project seeks to light up the darkness. Typified by the Art Deco style, the Starlight House is a shining example of her work as a designer. Constructed in the southern area of Japan, the house brings together sustainability, efficiency, and elegance, offering a unique living space for those in need of refuge. The materials used for the building include cedar and recycled Walnut, giving it an aura of beauty.The Starlight House – Yuka Nagai
Greg Morrisett’s solar house design established as proof that beautiful homes can also be energy efficient. The structure is made out of materials that are both affordable and ecologically sound, such as photovoltaic walls and a green roof designed to create a positive energy feature. Combining the art deco style with energy efficiency, this house results in a stunning residence.Solar House Design – Greg Morrisett
Sarah Calamari's Equilibrium House is an elegant and luxurious example of art deco-style architecture, which at the same time embraces sustainability. The framework for the house is built out of earth-friendly materials such as reclaimed and recycled aluminium. With the innovative use of ecological materials, Calamari created a beautiful home that helps maintain the local ecology. Equilibrium House – Sarah Calamari
Andrew Putnam’s House of 5 is a unique example of the art deco style. Rather than simply creating a traditional single-family home, Putnam has managed to craft a construction that offers five living units for lower-income homeowners in the same spot. The house is also built with an eye toward sustainability, with energy efficient elements and a focus on resource conservation. By fitting five dwellings in the space of one, Putnam has changed the way in which everyday people can experience the art deco style.The House of 5 – Andrew Putnam
Christina Gaspar’s Bachin Project seeks to bring art deco into the modern world. An ecological and cultural symbol in the city of Buenos Aires, the Basque-style construction of this house stretches far beyond the typical architecture of the time. It is an example of a building style that has been modernized, with an eye toward sustainability and respect for the environment. Bachin Project – Christine Gaspar
Laura Rigers’ Re-defining Reconciliation house looks to the past for an example of present-day building. Her design pays homage to the traditional adobes of San Louis as she constructed a sturdy, energy-efficient home that accentuates the unique traits of art deco-style. By grounding her design in the materials and resources from the land, she has created a home that respects the environment and reflects the cultural traditions of the region. Re-defining Reconciliation – Laura Rigers
Matthew Lella’s work offered a refreshing look at art deco-style architecture with his Housing for the Disenfranchised project. Combining an economical and a socially conscious approach, he has managed to create a home that is both spacious and enduring. Using durable materials, the house offers a long-term solution for those in need of refuge, allowing them to benefit both from its space and safety.Housing for the Disenfranchised – Matthew Lella
Lauren Naron-Finch is leading the way with sustainable design for her Cooperative Housing for New Haven. Utilizing a variety of eco-friendly materials, she has created an art deco-style living space that is modern and beautiful. The materials used are resilient and strong, all the while offering affordability and energy efficiency. Naron-Finch has also utilized renewable energy and thermal regulation technology, creating an attractive and sustainable home.Cooperative Housing for New Haven – Lauren Naron-Finch