Designers Build Modular Homes Using Recyclable Cardboard

Growing up, haven’t we all built cardboard playhouses for our dolls? The brilliant minds at Netherlands-based Fiction Factory have constructed full-sized, livable modular homes using cardboard as the primary building material. Designed to last over 50 years, the Wikkelhouse (meaning, “Wrapping House”) is completely recyclable and, can be customized according to the owners’ preferences.

The result of four long years of research, the dwelling, which is built using heavy-duty paper, boasts a simple, modular design that takes only a day to install. Construction begins with a giant machine, where a layer of special, eco-friendly adhesive is applied to a single roll of recycled, corrugated cardboard. Following that, the material is wrapped around the structure’s frame for a total of 24 times to lend it durability, strength as well as a proper shape.

Finally, the exterior is covered with eco-friendly waterproofing material, and lined with robust timber paneling. Incredibly easy to install, the structure can be erected anywhere, in your backyard or even on the beach. What is more, it can be easily transported on the back of a truck. Thanks to its ingenious modular design, it can be expanded to house a bedroom, a bathroom, kitchen and a toilet.

According to the developers, two Wikkelhouses have already been constructed at FabCity Europe. Each of these dwellings is priced at around $80,000.