In November 2007 we will break ground for the first of two East Austin Alley Flats designed by students at the University of Texas. While these houses represent a tremendous start in finding new ways of creating a sustainable East Austin, there are many more avenues and opportunities to be explored, and relationships to be forged. This semester students at the University of Texas are exploring new opportunities for the design and deployment of Alley Flats in East Austin.Some of the guiding questions are as follows:

How can the rich cultural and social history of East Austin be used to answer some of these questions as well as offer better design solutions for the re-inhabitation of the Austin's alley's? How can greenbuilding practices ease the impact on an Alley Flat inhabitant's wallet and on the environment? How can an 850 sq ft house be designed to feel grand and wonderful well beyond its minimal square footage? What sort of efficiencies can be gained by neighboring Alley Flats sharing facilities, utilities and public/private space? Are there new sources of inspiration that can entirely reframe the way we look at small living and alley living?

Synopses of student background project research:

History of East Austin.

How to build sustainably.

How to live small.

Other sources of inspiration.

Read up to date information about the design process and even more importantly, share your feedback and ideas at our blog:

The Alley Flat Initiative Blog

For more general information about the Alley Flat Initiative:

The Alley Flat Initiative Website

BaSiC Initiative + Second Life [More]