A modular house that you can build and extend just like LEGOs has long been on the wish list of geeky people who want their houses to be as quirky as they are. They just might get their wish soon with these Teal Panels, which let you assemble temporary dwellings of various sizes and configurations.
Granted, it’s not exactly permanent housing, but it’s close enough. Even better, you can set these up in your yard, backyard, roof, garage and neighbor’s properties to build temporary shelters that somewhat resemble a real house. Just like a tent or a backyard pod, except more fun.
The Teal Panels use lightweight modular panels that you can connect to effectively build a single-floor housing unit. There are four standard panels: basic (a wall measuring 52 x 21 inches), window (a basic panel with a window cut out), corner (52 x 17.5 inches) and door frame assembly (two size options), which you connect to each other using machine screws. The strength of the walls can be further reinforced using optional gird straps, which will squeeze the panels together for a weather-tight seal. For roofing, the company will also do camper-style pop-up roofs (limited sizes, though, so you’re stuck building panels in that size), although you can always make your own (using canvas or wood) to fit your custom designs. Other panels include cabinets, beds, seats and a dinette set.
In case you’re curious about the shape, this was originally designed for assembling on top of a flat bed trailer as a way of letting people build their own tow-away campers. Anchor the assembly, though, and it could work just as well for setting up on regular surfaces like soil, grass and even concrete.
The bad news? The Teal Panels are still not in production. Creator Lawrence Drake has already received a patent for the design, but he’s still pooling up investors willing to fund the finished products.
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