‘Right-sized’ prefab smart home now available to order

If today’s tiny houses and shipping container homes (and shipping container tiny homes) strike you as a bit absurd or otherwise impractical, perhaps the new Flex House concept presents a more compelling vision of sustainable compact living. Shown at CES 2018, the so-called “right-sized” prefab design comes in at a comfortable 760 square feet, with smart home trimmings from head to toe. Flex House was one of the most impressive prefab houses we saw in 2018 and now it’s finally in production and available to order.

Flex House, presented by Green Builder Media, is the second and newest concept from California-based modular housing company Shelter Dynamics. From the outset, the curved roofline suggests that this efficiency-focused design doesn’t skimp on the architectural details that might charm buyers of traditional houses. Inside, pale floors and walls are garnished by arched doorways, recessed lighting, plus built-in seating and storage.

Green Builder Media

Upon entry, you’ll find two living areas: a main living room to the left, and a nook to the right, which leads to a bonus “niche” space before you get to the kitchen. In the kitchen, two windows bring in light, while 24’’ Bosch appliances make the most of the space. All the cabinets in the model home are from Ikea.

Green Builder Media

Of course, the Flex House wouldn’t be the Flex House without its full suite of smart home integrations and sustainability-minded fixtures. These include: a Nexus eWater greywater recycling system, Rachio WaterSense smart irrigation controller that optimizes water use based on weather data, Sylvania smart lighting, Lutron smart shades, Wemo smart plugs, Sensi smart thermostat, and Kwikset smart lock. And all of this is integrated with the smart assistant Amazon Alexa, which can be controlled by voice or app.

The concept also makes the case for electric vehicle charging at home (with 60 PV panels from JinkoSolar, a battery system from Tabuchi Electric, and EV charging station from Bosch), as well as emissions-free landscaping using lithium battery-powered outdoor tools from Greenworks.

Envisioned as a flexible housing solution suitable for young families, professionals, empty nesters, and more, the Flex House is available for $150,000 (delivery, permit, and site preparation costs not included); $5,000 is enough to get into the production queue. The turn-key home is delivered in about eight to 12 weeks.