World War II & Post-War Residential
Building Types
Modular/Manufactured Homes, 1960s-present
Manufactured homes are basically a progression from mobile homes and have become increasingly popular; in part because they represent a dwelling that is more substantial and permanent than a mobile home but less expensive than a house constructed on site. The concept is not new, however, and has ties to the 18th and 19th centuries in America, when cabins were often relocated, and more recently in the mid-20th century, when people bought decommissioned military and government surplus buildings for residential and other uses.
Modular homes look similar to mobile homes in that they are long and narrow enough to be transported on trailers (sometimes in two lengthwise halves). However, they are typically larger than mobile homes and resemble a basic ranch-type house in appearance.
Modular homes are also made to sit on a concrete or concrete block foundation, and some can accommodate a basement, and therefore have a more permanent nature. Construction materials come in a wide variety as well, including aluminum or vinyl siding, log veneer, plywood, stucco, and even a thin brick veneer and “permastone.”
Like mobile homes, modular homes are commonly sold from roadside lots and are particularly popular in rural areas. Although various styles are used in manufactured homes, like the mobile home they typically have their own style, and so they are noted in the style section as well.
Click on images to view full-size image
 |
 |
 |