District 01

District 01 is a visionary project that seeks to bring back the iconic Olivetti design brand to its glory days of the 70s and 80s. Taking inspiration from the Olivetti Valentine typewriter, which was renowned for its stylish design and portability, the project envisions the future of living and working spaces in the context of cloud computing technology and innovative construction methods. Incorporating technologies such as 3D printing and autonomous production, the project proposes a customisable and interchangeable modular housing system that can be configured by the user and built on-site. The use of modular and cross-laminated timber (CLT) construction ensures sustainability targets are met while maintaining quality control through factory assembly. The site, located in Cambridge, serves as a prototype for future satellite sites across the UK. It features an on-site showroom reminiscent of the iconic Olivetti typewriter showrooms, allowing visitors to create unique units with desired modules. The site is also designed to be a technology hub, situated adjacent to the vibrant tech and innovation community of the Silicone Fen, and providing a space for students, researchers, and tech start-ups to collaborate and thrive. Sustainability is at the core of the project, with the site being seamlessly integrated into the local cycle network, and adjoining railway lines being extended within the building for efficient transportation of goods.