Modern style kit homes are a growing trend for anyone looking for a home that doesn’t require a large amount of upfront investment. These kits come with everything you need to assemble and build the house. But they can also be more expensive than you might expect, so it’s important to do your research before buying one.
The original appeal of modern home kit designs was that they were cheaper and faster to assemble than traditional construction methods. However, over the course of the 20th century the idea of prefabricated homes started to fade, as building techniques and materials became more commonplace.
Today, a number of companies are bringing back the charm and convenience of mail-order kit homes, focusing on quality and efficiency. These companies, like Sears and others that offered their own versions of catalog homes during the early days of the modern home movement, offer a wide range of ready-made, customizable homes in both traditional and contemporary styles.
For example, the Ponderosa Thirty-Five by Smiling Woods is part yurt and log cabin, but it’s still small enough to fit in many backyards. These circular home and studio kits don’t require a separate foundation, can generate their own electricity, and come with specialized furniture and fixtures.
This 440-square-foot prefab home, which Alchemy Architects designed for Stillwater Dwellings, brings the outdoors in and allows fresh air to circulate throughout the space. It’s a great option for those who like to live close to nature, or just want a place to feel at home.
Another option, from Green Magic Homes, offers a range of eco-friendly homes that are ideal for secluded locations where you can’t bring your car. The company’s floor plans range from 660 to 1,200 square feet and can be customized with extra windows, larger doors, and covered porches.
While most modern prefab houses are a little smaller than tiny homes, some are big on style and can be quite impressive. This 1,100-square-foot single story home from GO Logic is certainly a contender.
A sloping roof, a floating steel canopy, and floor-to-ceiling windows set this modern prefab home apart from the rest. And it’s also LEED certified.
Lindal, the largest manufacturer of post-and-beam kit homes in North America, has an extensive network of dealers. Their home kits take about 12 to 18 months to construct and cost 20 to 40 percent less than custom, architect-designed, site-built homes.
These homes can be built on a lot or poured into place on the ground, and they’re available in all kinds of sizes. They’re especially popular among people who like to travel, as they can be erected quickly on secluded islands or vacation spots.
When choosing a modern prefab home, look for features that reflect your personal tastes and needs. It’s especially important to choose a model that’s built with high-quality materials and sustainable practices.
For example, Blu Homes has a 4,000-square-foot model called the Breezehouse that features walls with large panels that can be pulled aside. It’s a great example of how to make an ordinary house look more modern and open.
