Want to benefit the environment and save money on a comfortable abode? Consider what the company Conceptos Plásticos (Plastic Concepts) is capable of accomplishing in just five days.
Founded in 2011 by Colombian Fernando Llanos and architect Óscar Méndez, Conceptos Plásticos specializes in creating affordable, eco-friendly houses in a short period of time. In fact, its iconic 2 bedroom/1 bathroom house can be constructed in just five days with a team of four workers.
Ordinary-looking at first glance, the 430 square foot structure is made from recycled plastic bricks that snap together like Legos. It cost only 20,000 pesos ($6,800) to make and is able to resist combustion, provide insulation and meet local earthquake-resistance requirements.
According to the NRC, the houses have “a design adapted to the need for mobility and climatic conditions,” and the design of the roof “improves both ventilation and lighting allowing for suitable conditions in such a hot climate.” Though it might not look like it from the outside, the home is large enough for two bedrooms, a living room, a dining room, a bathroom and a kitchen.
Recycled plastic was utilized partly because it is an intelligent way to prevent waste from accumulating in the environment, and because homeowner Fernando Llanos met challenges when initially attempting to make recycled plastic bricks. After teaming up with Méndez, however, an innovative system to build homes in remote areas – and for an affordable cost – was developed.
Óscar Méndez to the Colombian newspaper El Tiempo,
“Working with new plastic is simple, because there are defined parameters, but used (plastic) requires more experimentation.”
The company has continued to grow over the past ten years. In fact, Concepto Plásticos recently completed the construction of a temporary shelter for 42 families displaced in Colombia, reports Arch Daily. It was also chosen to receive $300,000 by the Chivas Venture to help it expand on a global scale.
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