Selvon's Generation Next

26/07/2026

26/07/2026

26/07/2026

25/07/2026

04/04/2026

It was a tough choice for the judges. Not just taste but layout too!

04/04/2026

Everyone has tasks! They learn from early that we work as a team!

25/02/2026

This House Takes 6 Hours to Build and Costs $33K. The MADi (Modulo Abitativo Dispiegabile) house represents an innovative approach to sustainable, rapid-construction housing. Designed by Italian architect Renato Vidal, this foldable prefab structure combines earthquake-resistant engineering with eco-friendly features like optional solar panels for off-grid living. Its distinctive A-frame shape provides structural stability while maximizing interior space across one or two floors, making it ideal for residential, vacation, or emergency use.

The construction process begins with site preparation. Unlike traditional homes, MADi requires no permanent concrete foundation; instead, it uses a recoverable screw-pile or ballast system that minimizes environmental impact.

The house arrives on-site in a compact, flat-packed or hinged module transported by truck. A team of three workers, assisted by a crane, unfolds the structure in just six to seven hours.

The crane lifts the central triangular sections, allowing the hinged walls and roof to expand into the A-frame form. Once locked in place, the rigid triangle ensures durability. Interior elements, such as walls, windows, flooring, and utilities (plumbing, electrical, and HVAC), are then installed.

The modular design allows for customization, including kitchen setups, bathrooms, and energy-efficient additions like LED lighting and solar integration. The entire assembly is dry, using standard materials like cross-laminated timber for insulation and strength. When no longer needed, the house can be folded and relocated, leaving no trace on the land.

Approximate costs vary by size and features. The smallest model, around 290 square feet with one bedroom, starts at about $33,000 to $37,000, excluding site prep and utilities. Larger versions, up to 900 square feet with multiple modules, range from $74,000 to over $100,000, or roughly $900 to $1,000 per square meter. Additional expenses for crane rental ($4,000–$6,000), labor ($6,000 for a crew), and foundation work can add 20–30% to the total. In 2026, inflation and material costs may increase these figures slightly, but MADi's efficiency keeps it affordable compared to conventional builds.

This system offers a quick, green alternative to lengthy construction, promoting flexible living in an era of mobility and sustainability.

24/02/2026

21/02/2026