The Spring 2009 students confronted the ethical dilemma of a client driven project that asked them to perpetuate a pattern of unsustainable single-family development. Each student was challenged to design a prefabricated "House in a Box" system that was affordable, site sensitive, and adaptable to multiple climates and client demands. Students then used their systems to design a single-family home for a client in Phoenix. In response to the program v. ethic dilemma, one student incorporated a community park at the front of the lot. Several other students responded by designing systems that could stand alone or serve as a component within a high density multi-use complex. Following is one solution to the challenge, the CorePod, completed by Darcy Everett and Amy Glasscock.

COREPOD

As the name indicates, this prefabricated system is based on a central core with nodes extending out on two sides. Along with the core and pod system, a central courtyard is an integral feature of the design as an expansion of the livable space. Structurally Insulated Panels (SIPS) make up the basic structure of this system due to their insulative capabilities and efficient use of materials. The SIPS chosen for this system also incorporate a pre manufactured exterior and interior skin that can be varied and easily changed depending on the climate, usage, or customer desire.

The floor for the CorePod is a raised access panel system that allows for increased flexibility and disentanglement of all systems running within the floor. The core houses all of the plumbing, electricity, and possible HVAC systems with raceways into the surrounding nodes for accessibility.