Brave new world: the Netherlands

Article Abstract:

Open building systems such as Matura are giving residents of social housing schemes in the Netherlands the opportunity to change the layout of their home as part of a refurbishment programme. At the Prinses Beatrixlaan estate in Voorburg, Netherlands, for example, it was possible for tenants to choose whether, how and when interior refurbishment would be undertaken. The room layout of the apartments could be changed, regardless of the location of service risers. A shallow floating floor system was used to separate structure and fit-out.

Netherlands, Public housing, Remodeling and renovation

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Brave new world, Germany

Article Abstract:

German housebuilders are investing in prefabricated housing techniques as the need for low-cost housing increases during the end of the 1990s. About 11% of West Germany's housing was prefabricated in 1997 compared with 1% in the UK in 1997. The Schwaebisch Hall Building Society formed a partnership with organisations involved in house construction to provide houses which could be purchased for about 120,000 pounds sterling rather than 150,000 pounds sterling, which was the average house price in Germany in 1995.

Germany, Modular houses, Prefabricated houses, Schwaebisch Hall Building Society

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Brave new world: Japan

Article Abstract:

Japanese housing manufacturers have established close links with their customers since the early 1990s through extensive customer centres. At these centres, visitors can learn about housing products and processes, and customers who have already decided to purchase can discuss design details. Mitsui has an interactive virtual reality centre, while Daiwa Homes has an attractive housing exhibition space. This approach has served to boost levels of customer awareness and to increase interest in housing innovation.

Japan, Housing developers

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