In the article “This Detroit house is being turned into a living model of cost saving sustainable design” by Adele Peters (2016) highlights the activity of three Dutch students, who have undertaken a mission to rebuild old houses and make them universal and cutting-edge. Their aim is to use a variety of innovative architectural techniques and turn every house into a cost-efficient project. They used common materials and components, which are available at Home Depot. “Do-it-yourself” principle is core component guiding the myriad-minded students. The idea is not only to use available resources but also to empower residents so that in future they can improve their houses by themselves (Adele Peters, 2016).
Peters presents a number of arguments in support of the students’ initiative. Primarily, the author claims that their efforts and desire to rebuild Detroit are commendable. Secondly, their approach employs new methods and techniques in the field of architecture (Adele Peters, 2016). I agree with the author that the project is a practical and sustainable idea, as the students motivate and inspire others to contribute to the society and apply newfound expertise and skills.
Interestingly, the students chose Detroit as they had previously learned about the area during classes. They knew the district was in poor condition, which they realized was true when they visited. Detroit is even known as the “ghost town” of the US (Christian Viveros-Fauné, 2016). It was strange for me to find out that Dutch students were restoring an area in the US. Taking into account the abysmal housing conditions in Detroit, one can only be happy for the efforts those students apply.
In my view, these students are building the future sustainable houses. There are many trends in the field of architecture, such as cost-efficient house insulation, new recyclable and resistant materials and many other areas of study that look promising. However, the actual beauty of this project is that it is currently being implemented. I value the project as it is not on the waiting list for budgeting. The students have made a decision and they are now currently working and developing the project. I believe such type of an initiative should inspire other students. Any theoretical knowledge should be practically reinforced, and all the students should have freedom for self-expression. Otherwise, it is not possible for students to think of innovative ideas and turn it into new jobs.
In the attempt to explore the project, I have visited the official website of the program. The students have coherently put forward their ideas, presented their development strategies and mission. The website shows the first exemplary building, which seems to include all the possible innovative constructions means, such as solar panels, water tank accumulating the rain and snow water, heating water using solar energy, septic tank, green roof, and insulation solutions. The solar panels are the core element from the perspective of saving finances, as residents may benefit and drastically cut down energy expenses. For the undeveloped area of Detroit, such a solution will work best. Moreover, the exemplary house is completely ecologically-friendly and clean (Adele Peters, 2016).
The founders call their project “the urban laboratory of Detroit,” which thoroughly describes the actual process (Adele Peters, 2016). Apart from initially expressing a desire to fight climate change, the project’s founders clearly inspire others to create and contribute to the society. There are many supporters and donators for the idea, which proves that if one has a dream, there is nothing impossible. I do hope this project will successfully be accomplished, as such type of building does not have any wastes or negative impact on the surrounding environment.
References
1. Adele Peters (2016). This Detroit house is being turned into a living model of cost saving sustainable design.
Retrieved from:
<https://www.fastcoexist.com/3061563/world-changing-ideas/this-detroit-house-is-being-turned-into-a-living-model-of-cost-saving-s>
2. Christian Viveros-Fauné (2016, September 15). How Detroit is Becoming a Lasting Destination for the Arts.
Retrieved from:
<https://news.artnet.com/opinion/the-motor-city-gets-its-art-on-650987>
