PREFAB FRIDAY: Perrinepod
by Emily Pilloton, 08/10/07
If you need a cute prefab home that can be built in 3 days and withstand everything from earthquakes to cyclones, than the sleek and chic Perrinepod is your answer. This disaster-proof prefab is not only durable, but green in its material, systems, and long life-span. Designed by architect Jean-mic Perrine, Perrinepod merges modern luxury and green living in a compact, modern home. Green features include a Solar Edwards Heat Pump hot water system that uses refrigeration technology in reverse to heat the water. Additionally, Perrinepods can be stacked on top of each other (up to 30 units tall!) to create larger complexes.
When talking about green residences, the discussion often centers around materiality (what’s it made of?) and systems (how is it powered?). The Perrinepod is a good example of green-ness in durability, as its sheer heft and strong walls (made from pre-cast, pre-stressed and tensioned concrete with an R value of 6.8- a typical brick-and-tile house with insulation is R1.9) mean it’s probably not falling apart or going anywhere anytime soon.
If you’re wondering about more traditional green features, the Perrinepod has a high-tech solar system available that powers the home as well as heating water. Additionally, the high-grade concrete provides superior insulation for both hot and cold months.
As for the pricetag, the one-bedroom version, which weighs in at a hefty 114 tons, starts at $125,000, while a three-bedroom, two-bathroom pod starts at $250,000.
Very attractive design with innovations and it appears to be well thought out in many aspects. I’m sure readers will want to know if one has been built or if he is really good at computerized modeling; is it available in the US and if so, are those quoted prices US dollars?
My criticism is of the attempt to sell us on the low insulation level. It and all the glass may work in a hot climate but not anywhere else and they not only tout how good it is they even illustrate it in a snow covered mountain setting. When you see obvious less than honest claims on something of this significance it causes you to question the credibility of all claims.