THE MODULE

The Module is a government funded, cyclone-resistant housing kit for communities in the South Pacific. The simple timber frame provides affordability through adaptability, through the use of local materials and incremental expansion.

The Module addresses the need for affordable cyclone-proof housing that can respond to the varied challenges and cultures of the South Pacific. The Module will be delivered to site as a set of parts, allowing for easy assembly in response to disaster, whilst the cyclone-resistant construction ensures long-term protection of life.

The Module will be rolled out as a government funded initiative, with families providing 1/3 of the cost for each kit. The kit will provide a set number of modules, with a 4-6 module kit currently proposed. This would see families contribute an initial cost of between £2300-£3700, with the opportunity to purchase further modules when finances allow.

The Module Kit is assembled by the community, providing on-site construction training and an increased understanding of cyclone-resistant building techniques. Once constructed, the Module can be in-filled with materials available to the families, either grown locally or purchased, such as woven bamboo cladding, weatherboarding, rice sacks and wattle and daub. This enables the module to respond locally to family finances, climatic challenges and traditional building methods. The Module also proves a framework for communities to develop the use of Compressed Earth Blocks, replacing the need for expensive imported materials or reliance on crops that are often destroyed in cyclones.

Moving the project forward, I would be keen to undertake further research on the introduction and development of Compressed Earth Blocks within the communities of the South Pacific. I would also be interested in progressing the Module through community engagement and feedback sessions.

The following pages set out how the Module can be adapted by each family, whilst ensuring comfort, resilience and education.