Portuguese architect Samuel Gonclaves has created a clever concrete modular housing system called the "Gomos System." It was launched late last year in Arouca, Portugal with funding from 18 local companies to help get the project off the ground. The system consists of a series of singular reinforced concrete modules (gomos) which are entirely prefabricated off-site (inside and out) and simply join together, providing a fully livable home in a matter of days.
- The Gomos System offers a flexible design platform, where each home can be as big or small as needed, depending on the number of modules chosen and the final configuration. It also allows for Gomos home owners to start off small and extend over time, with the addition of extra modules. The maximum size of an individual Gomos measures 2.35 meters wide by 5.90 meters deep ( 7.70 ft x 19.35 ft) and the modules can be adapted for different types of terrain or ground levels.
The process of creating a Gomos home is broken into four stages: factory production of the structure; interior and exterior finishings and features; transportation and fast assembly. Each module is transported by truck direct from the factory with all of the home's final features, including interior furnishings, flooring, insulation, windows, doors, water facilities, electricity and complete external facade. This allows for fast installation once on site, speeding up traditional construction times.
"This project differentiates itself by gathering cumulatively three crucial factors in the modular construction market," architect Samuel Gonçalves told Portuguese newspaperP3. "Including the construction of all components in the factory, which allows an in situ assembly in a few days and ensures secure installation which is carried out under highly controlled conditions; the modelling of optimized [modular] shapes and sizes that make their transport easier and effective; and plans drawn up based on the Gomos System which comply with all applicable legislation, particularly in terms of accessibility, licensing and even to serve as permanent housing."
Although the modular home is designed to include lots of natural light and air flow, there are no additional windows featured along two sides of the completed home, raising concerns for the possibility of darker rooms which end up being closed off internally. The Gomos home does however, feature two large glass feature walls at either end and a series of skylights have been positioned throughout the structure's roofing, ensuring that natural light does reach the internal sections.
According to P3, the Gomos modular homes are anticipated to start from €50,000 (about US $55,000) plus taxes for a base model. Prices will vary depending on a customer's choice of features and bespoke specifications. Buyers will also have the option of adding solar panels and a choice of external claddings, paints, floors, window frames and fixed furniture such as kitchens.
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