During the last decades, traditional construction systems have evolved into industrialized processes in harmony with a mobile and traveling world. New residences have thus appeared, such as modular houses, whose innovative techniques offer excellent results in terms of efficiency, budget and sustainability.
However, when it comes to choosing between concrete and wood, a dilemma arises. Jon Irigoyen, Eneko Dominguez, Amaia Guibert and Miren Irigoyen, from the i-architecture agency, based in Bilbao, Spain, reveal the insides of these two materials applied to modular systems.
Should you choose between a concrete or wooden modular house?
Regarding wood, the i-architecture team is categorical: “It is easy to work with, insulated and light for transportation and assembly, which significantly reduces costs. In addition, it can be used as a seamless finish, it is environmentally friendly and can be easily reused or recycled at the end of its life. »
Wood is very present in the modular projects of i-architecture, such as Entre Muros, a private villa in Majorca, SHELTER_, a space of 15 square meters of plywood laminated inside and out, or another house in the Bay of Biscay, which the agency is currently working on. completing
What inspired these projects? “The Japanese tradition of woodworking, we denote at i-architecture, where nature, spirit and society come together through ancient techniques to highlight the value of patience, precision and above all deep respect for the natural world. As we delve deeper into these woodworking techniques and styles, we discover that they are not just construction methods, but also life lessons that teach us the harmony, balance and beauty of making a material that has a soul. Housing is an essential good, but it must be in harmony with the planet, creating a resilient ecosystem. »