Caguas, Puerto Rico
Marvel Architects’ ACACIA Resilient Homes Prototype aims to address the essential need for dignified, permanent, safe, and reduced-cost housing.
The traditional affordable single-family home’s DNA is dissected and re-crafted into a sustainable and resilient dwelling made of renewable resources and infrastructure that can sustain living conditions while being off-grid for extended periods.
ACACIA has been awarded a 2023 American Architecture Award by The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design and The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies.
Marvel implements passive design strategies in order to provide natural light and cross ventilation, heat extraction, and rain gardens.
The design considers the use of locally manufactured structural systems, accessible materials, as well as hurricane and seismic-resistant components.
Regarding earthquakes, the project’s insulated concrete panel system has been proven to be equal to or more effective when compared to traditional concrete block construction due to its relative lightness and integrated reinforcement.
The design’s modularity, interior distribution, and configuration provide adaptability for diverse locations and square footage needed.
Additionally, the design works with a community and cultural component. The balcony and interior patio were incorporated because they form part of the cultural development and community interaction as Boricuas.
Project: ACACIA Resilient Homes Prototype
Architects: Marvel Architects, Landscape Architects, Urban Designers PLLC.
Design Team: Jonathan Marvel, José R Marchand, Héctor J. Ralat-Sotomayor, José Juan Terrasa-Soler, Enrique Ramon, and Karen Cuadro Esteves
General Contractor: Ecobuilders LLC.
Client: Acacia Network Inc.
Photographers: Paola Quevedo Santos
