courtesy Macro Micro Studio
The design and build of the UK’s first self-build, fully autonomous live/work timber studio in the Botanic Gardens, Dundee.
The Macro Micro Studio is a 50m2 Passivhaus standard, off-grid demonstrator developed and built by the University of Dundee’s Macro Micro research unit, a Department of Architecture Masters Unit. The project is unique in that it is completely student led and built. Technologies within the studio will be tested in real-world scenarios over a period of four years, generating an understanding of the relationship between user behaviour and technical performance.
courtesy Macro Micro Studio
During this period the studio will be open to the public as a demonstrator located within the Botanic Gardens of Dundee. The project has gained significant support from industry in terms of in-kind expertise, direct funding, with £140,000 worth of materials and components being contributed for the build.
courtesy Macro Micro Studio
The construction uses an innovative Scottish manufactured timber system, the Cullen Space Stud, which makes use of low grade locally grown timber in a new, commercially viable structural product. It gives increased wall depth while minimising thermal bridging and increasing the ability to self-build at low cost. The Studio also makes use of an innovative foamed concrete raft foundation slab, which has been contributed by ProPump, which provides structure and insulation in a single material.
courtesy Macro Micro Studio
Through an innovative and education led design we feel that the project can open up opportunities to inspire or inform the architecture and construction industries and future student led projects. The Marco Micro Studio is open to the general public once completed and will be accompanied by an in-depth publication which will open the project up to a wider audience and increase the educational possibilities and industry interest which can only benefit the continual development of the Passivhaus movement in the UK.
courtesy Macro Micro Studio
+ Project data
Architectural Design: Macro/Micro Studio : Masters Students | www.macromicro.co.uk
Overseeing Architects: Joseph Thurrot and Neil Burford
Date: 2011-2013
Location: Botanic Gardens, Dundee, UK
Value of Donated Services and Materials: £130,000 (left to fund £30,000)
+ All images and drawings courtesy Macro Micro Studio
