Habitat '67 - World's First Modular Pre-fab Housing Complex

Habitat '67 initially built as a part of Expo 67 Montreal, Quebec, Canada is considered by many as a precursor to pre-fabricated modular design concept for multi storied residential complexes. The building is a classic example to illustrate how the people in crowded cities around the world should live, where each resident not only has privacy and seclusion but also has a green garden of his own.

Designed by Moshe Safdie this large scale residential complex was initially used for accommodating the dignitaries visiting the Expo 67 and later on was sold/rented out to local residents. It is now Montreal’s most recognizable landmark.

The basic design for Habitat '67 is based on the use of 354 pre-cast concrete modules, which are arranged to create 16 differently configured living spaces, for a total of 158 residences within the complex. Some recent modifications/mergers of modules have reduced the total housings to 150. 

Initially a 20 storey high structure with 950 modules was envisioned but due to financial constrains only 354 modules were erected. Each module measures 38.5 feet  long, 17.5 feet wide and 10 feet high (approx. 11.7 x  5.33 x 3.05 metres).

Image from Flickr is by stephengg

Image from Flickr is by meantux

Image from Flickr is by leonardo.bonanni

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Image from Flickr is by jean hambourg

Image from Flickr is by ken ratcliff

Image from Flickr is by Mr.850

West side view

Image source: MSN Bing Aerial View

East side view

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Main source of info and more info: http://cac.mcgill.ca/safdie/habitat/

Credits: I am thankful to Klaus Fischer for suggesting inclusion of this great building in my travelogue - Thank you Klaus.