MOS architects develops modular element house for off-the-grid living

MOS architects develops modular element house for off-the-grid living
images courtesy of element house / MOS architects
photography by florian holzherr

located in the middle of a barren desert landscape in new mexico, new york-based MOS architects have designed the ‘element house’ funded and built by the museum of outdoor arts. sitting as a cluster of silver volumes, the SIPS (structural insulated panel) home is a single entity, designed to function independently by employing passive systems such as solar power, LED lighting and recycling water.

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the SIPS construction is designed with the aim to operate independent of public utility services

the distinctive shape is derived from the fibonacci sequence. the series of numbers was applied in order to explore the idea of recombinatory thinking in building forms and the technique of spatial compartmentalization. this is seen in the interior arrangement of the space, where each module seems to grow outwards, angling away but still connected to each other. featuring ‘chimneys’ on the roof, they direct natural light which filters through the skylight into the internal spaces.

the form is derived from the fibonacci sequence, which is a describer of developmental patterns in living organisms

allowing rapid design adaptability, the energy efficient prototype can expand and adapt to the number of inhabitants, all the while, retaining the typography of a ‘home’. currently erected for a land art project by artist charles ross for star axis, the modular scheme is an opportunity for off-the-grid experience in any location.