Prefabrication experiments - 427 - ML(urban block) - Modular reconstruction with Speedstac

 

The serial urban block symbolized 20th century prefabrication and industrialized construction. Framed by normalized government intervention using panelized or modular volumetric construction, planning logistics, zoning, arrangements, materials, and systems were all optimally coordinated from procurement to site installation. In the USSR in particular, the pattern buildings’ production was centralized; factories were set up and neighborhoods were completely built by national and local Gosstroys (state committees for construction) deploying similar design and construction methodologies geared toward efficient production. 

 

Since these buildings shared details, dimensions, performance criteria and components, they have also aged analogously and are susceptible to similar degradations. Sixty to seventy years after their initial commissioning some have either been demolished or most are in dire need of functional updates, repair, maintenance and in some cases, new conflicts that have destroyed parts of the structures. As the buildings share similar characteristics, their upkeep, renovation, or even restoration can lead to a form of standardized formula applied to their composing parts. 

 

The Speedstac^tm, an offsite manufactured retrofit unit made up of Integrated Structural Panels designed by architectural firm WZMH architects, proposes an industrialized building system for refurbishing or reconstructing parts of K buildings damaged by the Ukraine Russia conflict. The K acknowledges the Krushchyovka, nine story buildings produced by the USSR during the cold war. Arranged in the form of containers, the strategy could prove to be an efficient platform geared for adaptive reuse and recommissioning the typical prefab block. Contrary to the original systems, Speedstac uses high performance construction for both thermal and acoustic comfort.  The modular units’ panels include all necessary amenities, systems and function like a plug-in prosthesis for either parts of a building or for complete rebuilds. Planned in the context of the current crisis, the boxes could feasibly be used in any flat slab concrete structure stripped of its outdated services and envelopes to act as a support framework. The factory completed containers would simply slide into the structure.  

 

Produced for quick installation this type of functional unit could also be used for adapting existing commercial buildings as an affordable housing solution in cities with an aging building stock.