The Enigmatic Flying Saucer House in Columbia
The “Flying Saucer House,” officially known as the Futuro House, is a prefabricated house designed by Finnish architect Matti Suuronen in the late 1960s. Only around 100 of these unique structures were ever built, making them rare and fascinating examples of experimental architecture. One such example resides in Columbia, South Carolina, attracting attention with its distinctive shape.
What is the Futuro House?
The Futuro House was Suuronen’s attempt to create a modular, easily transportable, and rapidly constructible home. Its design, resembling a flying saucer, was made of fiberglass-reinforced polyester plastic, making it lightweight and relatively inexpensive to manufacture. The original idea was for the Futuro House to serve as a ski chalet or vacation home, easily placed in remote locations.
The Flying Saucer House in Columbia, SC
The Futuro House in Columbia, South Carolina is one of the few remaining examples of this architectural experiment. Its presence is a conversation starter, drawing visitors and architecture enthusiasts alike. While many Futuro Houses have been lost to time, neglect, or demolition, the Columbia example has survived, often serving as a landmark and a reminder of a forward-thinking architectural vision from the past. For a deeper dive into the history and global locations of these structures, check out the Futuro House Wikipedia page.
Why So Few Futuro Houses?
Despite the initial enthusiasm, the Futuro House never achieved widespread popularity. Several factors contributed to its limited production run. The 1973 oil crisis dramatically increased the price of plastic, making the houses less affordable. Also, planning regulations and public resistance to the unconventional design posed challenges. Furthermore, the perceived lack of practicality compared to traditional housing also hindered its success.
Preservation Efforts
Recognizing the architectural significance of the Futuro Houses, preservation efforts have been underway to protect and restore these unique structures. Some have been relocated to museums or private collections, ensuring their survival for future generations. The Columbia Futuro House, while not always actively preserved, benefits from its continued existence as a local landmark and subject of interest.
FAQs
Where are other Futuro Houses located?
Futuro Houses are scattered across the globe, in countries including Finland, Australia, the United States, and Japan. Their distribution is quite limited due to the small production run.
What are Futuro Houses made of?
Futuro Houses are primarily made of fiberglass-reinforced polyester plastic.
How much did a Futuro House cost originally?
The original cost of a Futuro House varied depending on location and features, but they were initially intended to be relatively inexpensive.
Can you still buy a Futuro House?
It’s extremely rare to find Futuro Houses for sale. When they do appear, they are often sold as historic objects or architectural curiosities.
Are Futuro Houses comfortable to live in?
While the design is unique, some find the interiors cramped compared to conventional homes. Comfort depends on personal preference and any modifications made to the original design.
Summary
The Futuro House in Columbia, SC is a compelling example of a bold, albeit ultimately unsuccessful, architectural experiment from the late 1960s. Designed for modularity and ease of transport, these “flying saucer” homes represent a fascinating moment in design history. The limited production and challenges faced by the Futuro House make the surviving examples, like the one in Columbia, all the more valuable and intriguing.
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