the indigo cabins by woonpioniers are modular, mass-customizable, and sustainable

netherlands-based woonpioniers presents their modular, mass-customizable, and sustainable indigo cabins. the cabins, which use a substantial amount of bio-based materials, aim to create an architecture that is wholesome for the user and our planet.

all images by henny van belkom

made of bio-based materials like wood and cellulose, straw, hemp fibers, wool, earth and clay, the indigo cabins by woonpioniers try to minimize the use of artificial, toxic products and finite raw resources as these materials can be easily regrown or composted. by being modular, the cabins also offer an effective way to waste less material, energy and money — they can start small, expand later, or even reduce. finally, at the end of their lifespan, they can be easily disassembled, possibly re-assembled, or composted by nature.

‘thinking modular can be a fundamental and effective way of wasting less material, energy and money,’ comments woonpioners on their webpage. ‘it allows for mass-prefabrication under controlled conditions and lightning fast assembly on site. furthermore, it opens up the gateway for adaptive volumes.’

when designing the cabins, the team also explores which low-tech, holistic interventions can help reduce energy consumption. ‘the local climate, the position of the sun throughout the year, natural surroundings and lifestyle are all discussed and taken into account,’ continues woonpioniers. ‘next we (computer-)analyze different scenario’s and elaborate an inclusive and affordable final plan. over the years we’ve also come to be quite familiar with so called “off-grid” applications, like solar and battery packages, (rain)water filters, compost toilets and halophyte. these enable people to live partially or entirely self-reliant, without making use of public utilities.’

the indigo cabin featured on the pictures of this article was designed as an artist studio where lia — the owner — can dedicate herself to sculpting.