FlatPak

Charlie Lazor, principal of Minneapolis-based Lazor Office, began his exploration of prefabrication in 2002 through the creation of a home for his family. The resulting prototype—a two-story, three-bedroom, three-bath house with a separate study and guest room—was completed in 2004 and launched the FlatPak series. As the name suggests, the system evokes a do-it-yourself attitude by offering owners a wide range of choices and a hand in the layout of their spaces. For instance, one could choose glass, wood, concrete, or metal panels to create a wall, depending on function and location. In this scheme, the homeowner does not assemble the house but rather becomes an active participant in its design. Numerous configurations are possible because FlatPak is based on a simple 8-foot-wide, 1-story-high wall panel. There is no fixed length and up to four stories are possible. Inspired by his experience as one of the founders of Blu Dot Design, a contemporary furniture manufacturer, Lazor approaches the house as a series of components that are brought together for on-site assembly. This philosophy parallels modern product manufacturing, whether for a chair or a car, that allows parts to be fabricated elsewhere and assembled at one location. FlatPak evokes the playful structure of the Eames House (1945–1949), designed by Charles and Ray Eames for the Case Study House program in California. A version of FlatPak based on Lazor’s prototype is produced by Empyrean, an experienced company that specializes in the construction of modern, prefabricated houses. Costs average $175–$250 per square foot and reflect a complete house package that also includes design, engineering, and project management services.

The version of the FlatPak House on display in the gallery was originally commissioned by Interface FLOR, a modular carpet company, for use at the 2005 International Contemporary Furniture Fair in New York.

http://www.flatpakhouse.com/
http://thedwellhomesbyempyrean.com/Preview3/Designers/Flatpak/03_flatpak.html