Prefabricated Houses: 4 Models you Need to Know about
Over the last decade, more and more countries have been turning to prefabricated houses. This low-cost alternative housing solution comes in many shapes and sizes, and the designs are constantly evolving.
After the US, Belgium is one of the countries where prefabricated homes have become popular. Like many countries, they adopted this housing solution to make it easier for people to design and plan their own homes for reasonable and, more importantly, affordable prices.
Another reason why many countries all around the world have decided to create more prefabricated homes is to promote sustainability. This, in turn, has arisen from the desire to improve the way humans interact with their environment.
In the past, most prefabricated houses emulated the style of the traditional family home. Nowadays, however, there are lots of different models of prefab houses.
Next, we’ll show you some of the different types of prefabricated houses you can find on the market. You’ll soon see that they are not only practical, customizable and affordable, but beautiful too.
Prefabricated houses: 4 models
1. Compact but bright
This single-storey model has various modules (bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and so on) which are generally small in size.
In spite of the compact size, this model comes with plenty of large windows which fill the rooms with natural light, and will, to a certain extent, bring the great outdoors and your home closer together.
Nature lovers who opt for this home will be pleased to discover that, with no barriers to get in the way, they’ll be able to enjoy nature and the environment whenever they want.
Plus, because it’s made from insulating materials, your home will always remain at a pleasant temperature, even in extreme weather conditions.
2. The two-storey model
As the name suggests, these models have two floors. In general, the upper floor contains the bedroom modules. As a result, the second floor becomes the more private, intimate part of the house. The lower floor is reserved for communal areas such as the living room, kitchen, entrance hall, and bathroom.
The front of these two-storey models may or may not include space for a garage or pergola. Everything depends on the needs of the person who chooses this model, and the type of facade they want.
Like cabin-style homes, this model suits both modern trends and more traditional housing styles, so its look can vary greatly from one home to the next.
3. The nomadic model
Nomadic style prefabricated houses are mobile, i.e. they sit on a simple structure which you can move easily from one place to another whenever you want.
At first glance, they may look a bit like a camper van, but like many other prefabs, you can personalize them to achieve a more modern, urban feel.
4. The L-shaped model
When there is only a single storey, prefab homes often take the shape of an L. This feature may be more or less pronounced, depending on the size of the plot.
One interesting feature of this type of prefab is it has two porches: the main porch, and a secondary porch. These are a great advantage when it comes to creating communal areas for everyone to use.
This model is very popular for people who want a garden, swimming pool or patio, without compromising on personal privacy. To allow for this, areas such as the living room and kitchen are kept separate.
Things to consider
The different modules that form prefabricated houses are tailor-made. So, among other things, you’ll need to carefully analyze the available space on your plot.
Every model of a prefabricated home is made from one main material (concrete, wood, steel etc.) which can affect the overall style. Consider this detail when choosing your model; it can actually have a significant role in determining the final look.
Once you’ve selected the model you want, the installation process is fairly simple. The pieces which make up each model are assembled in the factory. Then, once they are finished, they are transported to the building site. Finally, with the help of a crane, your home will take shape.
Prefabricated houses are an option you should definitely keep in mind when it comes to buying your own home. These houses are full of character, and you can even add additional elements such as chimneys and pergolas to create the home of your dreams.