Design Innovations in Manufactured Housing February 4, 2005—January 16, 2006 Original models and drawings by noted architects and industrial designers present the latest designs for pre-fabricated homes. Contrary to popular belief, manufactured homes have long been an affordable and high quality housing option. The history of these pre-fabricated dwellings transcends time and cultural boundaries, reflecting a long and colorful history. Native American teepees, yurts in Central Asia, Sears and Roebuck “kit houses,” and the mobile home are but a few examples. In the last decade, almost 25% of new home construction in the United States is pre-fabricated or uses pre-fabricated components. The exhibition’s designers seek to dispel the stigma associated with the “trailer” home, using cutting-edge technology and innovative design concepts to accommodate consumer’s unique lifestyles. Contemporary designs offer consumers endless possibilities—from high-rise apartments designed with stackable modules to single-family one or two-story homes. A variety of designs accomodate for residents with disabilities or feature energy efficiency, and include choice amenities such as vaulted ceilings and home gyms. Especially commissioned for this exhibition, the featured designs present creative solutions to fill the demand for affordable, high-quality housing. The exhibition also reveals many similarities between contemporary designs for manufactured homes and other mobile structures from around the world. This exhibition was developed by the City Design Center, College of Architecture and the Arts, UIC in collaboration with The Field Museum. The City Design Center, College of Architecture and the Arts, University of Illinois at Chicago received funds from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Graham Foundation for Advanced Studies in the Fine Arts to create this exhibition.