Futuro House
A Futuro house, or Futuro Pod, is a round, prefabricated house designed by Finnish architect Matti Suuronen, of which fewer than 100 were built during the late 1960s and early 1970s.
The Odd Shape
The shape, reminiscent of a flying saucer, and the structure's airplane hatch entrance has made the houses sought after by collectors.
Sizes and materials
The Futuro consists of prefabricated fiberglass-reinforced polyester plastic segments, which could be quickly assembled to create the structure, measuring 4 metres (13 feet) high and 8 metres (26 feet) in diameter.
Modular Construction
The Futuro House was designed to be easily transportable and assembled on-site. This modularity allowed for easy relocation if desired.
Portable Living
One of the intended purposes of the Futuro House was to serve as a portable vacation home or ski chalet. Its lightweight construction and compact size made it suitable for placement in remote or rugged environments, such as mountainsides or coastal areas.
Limited Production
Despite its futuristic appeal, only around 100 Futuro Houses were ever manufactured. The oil crisis of the 1970s led to increased production costs for the materials used in its construction, ultimately contributing to its limited production run.
Global Distribution
While the Futuro House was conceived in Finland, it gained popularity worldwide. Examples of the Futuro House can be found in various countries, including the United States, Australia, New Zealand, and several European countries.
Cultural Icon
Despite its limited production and commercial success, the Futuro House has attained cult status as a symbol of retro-futurism. It continues to captivate enthusiasts of mid-century design and architecture, inspiring countless replicas, adaptations, and artistic interpretations.
Preservation Efforts
Due to their scarcity and historical significance, efforts have been made to preserve existing Futuro Houses. Some have been restored to their original condition, while others have been relocated to museums or private collections, ensuring that this unique architectural relic remains accessible to future generations.