Low-cost prefabricated homes could be the answer to Bahrain’s government housing shortage, according to the minister in charge. Housing Minister Bassem Al Hamer revealed to the GDN that so-called “smart homes” were among several models being tested for inclusion in new government housing projects starting from next year. The public is more willing to accept prefabricated houses than when municipal councils were first approached with the idea more than a decade ago, Mr Al Hamer said.
“We are looking to reduce costs whether in building or operations and prefabricated homes are the best way to do so,” he said. “Of course we are not looking for the cheapest on the market, there are standards that suppliers will have to meet.
“We have certain sizes in mind and we want those that families could expand in future – it is not just about wanting to bring in prefabricated homes, it is about thinking for the future, especially with greater demand for our services. “Prefabricated homes are not a new concept and they are being used internationally.
“Years ago there was opposition, but things have changed – it was the same three years ago with apartments, but now we have a waiting list for them.” The minister said that suppliers would have to first test their homes at selected locations around Bahrain before being given the go-ahead. “We have seen several models, but we are mainly interested in one that is currently being used in other GCC countries,” he said.
“But that doesn’t mean we will not take from other suppliers if they fulfil our criteria.” Objecting to the use of the term “smart homes”, Mr Al Hamer said prefabricated houses were simply “more convenient”. “They are not just cost-efficient but would save a lot in electricity,” he said.
“Fewer power stations will be required for electricity generation and there will be less contractual involvement when actually doing the work.” Prefabricated homes are manufactured off-site before being shipped in sections to the place where they will be assembled. They have gained in popularity over recent years, with some designs inspired by postmodernism or futurist architecture.
According to officials figures, around 60,000 Bahraini families are currently on the Housing Ministry’s waiting lists. In response, the government last year launched a project to build 40,000 new homes by 2022.
By Mohammed Al A'Ali
