Mario Cucinella Architects will be part of the Italian Pavilion at the 11th International Architecture Exhibition organised by La Biennale di Venezia to be held from September 14th to November 23rd 2008.

The theme this year, entitled HOUSING ITALY. 12 Projects for Inhabiting and Re-inhabiting the City , is concerned with housing as "the central operative question of Italy's architectural culture".

In keeping with the exhibition theme MC A will exhibit our recent research on low cost, low energy, high quality housing.

Casa 100K:

Housing Evolution and the 100,000 Euro Home

A 100 thousand Euro dream home, measuring 100 square metres with zero C02 emissions. This is the 100 K Euro House Project.

A complex of housing units has been designed which by sharing a series of amenities for each family, instead of having multiple energy hungry machines, saves money in terms of purchasing, operating costs and maintenance.

One of the various design strategies features the integration in the complex of 30 square metres of photovoltaic panels. A Ministerial Decree 'conto energia' that promotes the generation of energy from solar based sources allows energy produced to be sold back to the national grid. The photovoltaic panels generate a micro income of 200 Euro per month for the householder.

The combination of new technologies, more flexible industrial systems, a better comprehension of the social fabric and occupants' needs, and great attention to energy efficiency has led to a brand-new scenario.

The research has centred on a need to recompose the building supply -chain beginning with an overall project that incorporates social considerations and is able to provide new solutions to new situations.

Homes that can be personalised through building specifications, the use of energy efficient materials, adapted to suit different spatial and living needs and financial considerations such as mortgages and insurance.

The results of the recent research 'Housing Evolution' undertaken by Makno & Consulting shows that in today's world the home is very much at the centre of our needs, dreams and plans, far more so than in the past. It can represent different life styles: a place for socialising with family and friends, reflecting our style and representing who we are, or else the house used practically for and day to day living.

The 100 K Euro House creates the space for these new lifestyles and brings back the notion of pleasure to home life.

The Italian Pavilion is promoted by the Ministry for Cultural Affairs and Activities and the Fondazione La Biennale di Venezia.