Growing homes
A housing system designed with nature
S. van de Ven (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
V.L. de Vries – Mentor (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
E.J.G.C. van Dooren – Mentor (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
R.A. Gorny – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
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Abstract
The Netherlands is currently facing a major housing shortage while the construction sector continues to place increasing pressure on the environment through high CO2 emissions, material consumption, and the loss of biodiversity. At the same time, existing housing often lacks flexibility, forcing people to relocate when their living situation changes. This graduation project explores how architecture can respond to these challenges through a modular, sustainable, and nature-inclusive housing system.
The project, Growing Homes, proposes a modular off-grid housing system that combines flexibility, circular construction, and living in harmony with nature. The system is based on compact timber modules that can be expanded or reduced over time according to changing household needs. By allowing homes to adapt instead of requiring relocation, the project aims to contribute to improved housing flow-through and reduce pressure on the housing market.
Central to the design is the principle of “designing with nature.” The homes
are elevated above the ground to minimize disturbance to the landscape and create space for biodiversity underneath the buildings. The project integrates bio-based and circular materials to reduce environmental impact and create a healthy indoor climate. In addition, the homes function completely off-grid through integrated systems.
Besides the architectural and technical design, the project also investigates collective living as a sustainable social model. A test eco-community demonstrates how the modular system can support shared outdoor spaces, communal facilities, and stronger social connections while maintaining a close relationship with nature.
Through design research, this project demonstrates how modular and
nature-inclusive architecture can contribute to a more flexible, circular, and environmentally responsible way of living.