When Wanona Satcher founded Mākhers Studio in 2017, her vision was clear: to tackle the pressing issue of affordable housing in her hometown of Atlanta, Georgia. As a landscape architect and urban designer, Satcher possessed a unique understanding of the complexities surrounding equitable housing access. Her deep-rooted desire to create spaces where individuals are not defined by their zip codes led her to reimagine the future of housing.
A Vision for Equitable Living
“I believe everyone deserves a space where they can thrive—close to work and recreation, without the stigma attached to their address,” Satcher expressed in an interview with the Modular Building Institute. This conviction motivated her to address not just housing shortages, but also the broader social challenges connected to them.
Recognizing a gap in the market for affordable, bespoke homes, Satcher decided to innovate by repurposing an unconventional material: recycled shipping containers. Enter the “Plug-In-Pods,” an inventive solution that not only champions sustainability but also provides immediate relief to communities in need of housing.
The Birth of the Plug-In-Pod
Mākhers Studio’s Plug-In-Pods are a game-changer in modular housing technology. Designed as “on-demand” housing, these units serve multiple functions, including entrepreneurial spaces and community centers. Satcher emphasizes the importance of creating environments that support entrepreneurial endeavors within underserved communities, allowing people not just to live, but to thrive.
Together with her husband, Kevin Hamak—a Marine Corps veteran with his own background in architecture and urban design—Satcher assembled a talented team of engineers, architects, and craftspeople. Significant attention is given to diversity as the team includes local veterans, LGBTQ+ community members, and women, leading to a rich and dynamic work culture.
Eco-Conscious Construction
Satcher’s commitment to sustainability informs every aspect of Mākhers Studio’s operations. She asserts that the shipping containers provide “adequate, abundant, and sustainable materials.” By using low-VOC paints and alternative insulation materials like hemp, the studio constructs units that are both energy-efficient and environmentally responsible.
One of the remarkable aspects of this model is the significant waste reduction it entails. A single 40-foot shipping container recycles approximately four tons of steel, producing an estimated 50% less landfill waste compared to traditional construction. This efficient approach culminates in healthier living environments, a critical concern that resonates deeply with Satcher, especially for vulnerable populations.
Focus on Veterans and Community Health
A pivotal aspect of Mākhers Studio’s mission revolves around creating housing for veterans. Currently, they are utilizing their innovative design model to construct veteran housing projects in Durham, North Carolina. Coupled with housing units, Satcher and her team are committed to fostering enclosed communal spaces that promote healing and rehabilitation among residents.
“Creating a courtyard space between units allows for restorative health and community building,” Satcher noted. It is a profound reflection of her understanding that housing is more than mere shelter; it forms the emotional and social backbone of a thriving community.
Navigating Challenges with Expertise
As a contractor for numerous organizations focused on providing housing solutions, Mākhers Studio plays a crucial role in navigating zoning laws and building codes. “We manage the entire process from start to finish, ensuring quality and efficiency,” Satcher says. This experience allows them to respond effectively to the immediate needs of those they serve, particularly marginalized groups in their communities.
Affordable Micro-Housing Solutions
Apart from veteran housing, Mākhers Studio is also dedicated to designing custom micro-housing units aimed at supporting marginalized homeowners, such as single parents and the elderly. With units starting around $75,000, Satcher is making strides towards democratizing affordable living.
The notion that “affordable housing is a fundamental component of an equitable community” underscores Satcher’s approach. As housing crises intensify and displacement of vulnerable communities continues, innovative solutions like the Plug-In-Pod may pave the way for new living paradigms.
Looking Towards the Future
As she reflects on her journey, Satcher asserts the necessity for a shift in how society conceptualizes living spaces. “We have to start thinking differently about how we live together,” she emphasizes. By championing sustainable building practices and fostering a sense of community, Satcher and Mākhers Studio embody a proactive approach to addressing one of the most pressing social issues of our time.
Mākhers Studio stands at the intersection of housing innovation, community support, and environmental sustainability. With leaders like Wanona Satcher at the helm, there is hope for a future where equitable, affordable housing is more than a dream but a tangible reality for all.
This article paints a picture of a pioneering effort in housing—one that not only addresses the critical shortages but also uplifts communities with respect and dignity. Through the work at Mākhers Studio, we can envision a future where everyone has a home that allows them to thrive.
