Flatpack homes come to Britain

The first flatpack homes in the UK have been built in Gateshead, with residents expected to start moving in during March.

Construction on the one and two bedroom flats, called BoKlok (said ‘Boo Klook’) homes, was completed this week, and a showhome has been opened for future buyers to look around. Two and three bedroom houses are still under construction.

The flat pack homes, which are already popular in Sweden, have been brought to the UK by a partnership between Ikea and UK developer Live Smart @ Home. They have an eco-home rating of ‘excellent’ and exceed current environmental building regulations. Energy and wastage are saved both during construction and when occupied.

In addition, the design includes large windows, reducing to need to use electric lighting, minimal use of tarmac, and pre-installed energy effiecient electrical goods.

“This is a very exciting time for everyone concerned in this development,” said Alan Prole, managing director of Live Smart @ Home. “We are now looking forward to welcoming our first residents.”

In total, 93 BoKlok homes are to be built, with prices ranging from £99,500 for a one bedroom flat to £149,995 for a three bedroom house. They can be bought outright, by shared ownership, or rented.

A second site for the homes in the north of England will be announced later this year.