Gustavo Penna Arquiteto e Associados (GPA&A) is a Brazilian based architectural firm having considerable experience in the development and implementation of medium and high complexity projects. They have recently completed a low cost house in partnership with steel industry company Gerdau.
The design of feasible home is modern but simple which keeps master bedroom, one twin bed room, central bathroom, laundry and a modern kitchen with attached living area which is open to the surrounding green area. The house comprises attractive, exposed brickwork and industrial open cabling. The house keeps 484-sq-ft (45 Sq m) area and floor to ceiling glass walls.
Gustavo Penna Arquiteto e Associados says“ The pilot project is part of the environmental education equipment of the Gerdau Germinar Program which presents to the public new sustainability concepts applied to mining activity and the concept of circular economy in housing – one of Gerdau’s social investment territories”.
Upcycled mining waste building materials have been made by Gerdau in collaboration with the Mining Engineering Department of the Federal University of Minas Gerais (FUMG) to build this feasible house. The bricks and mortar have been produced by mining waste and iron ore tailing.
“For the development of this technology and the execution of the work of the House, about 30 people have focused on solving this challenge that unites sustainability, education and quality housing,” says Gustavo Penna Arquiteto e Associados.
The architect has utilized wind and solar power systems to fulfill energy requirements of the house. The exterior brickwork and façade provides shades throughout the day, while through design of floor plan and location of windows the architect has provided enough light and air inside. Furthermore, the house comprises solar water heating system, rainwater collection pit, septic tank and soakage pit.
This project will be used for research and development of mining industry and eco-construction at Federal University of Minas Gerais (FUMG).
