One story Octagon, Apex prototype, Southern Saskatchewan, 1999
This innovative project demonstrated a new modular building technique while achieving affordability. An important part of this project was the training provided to the participating Nekaneet apprentice carpenters. Nekaneet input played a key part in the construction of both houses.
The conical roof system used was economical due to the reduced labour required for its construction. A modified 42' grain bin roof was used. It requires a multi-sided or round wall structure. We chose the octagon, at the time, for it`s several advantages.
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Creating the foundation and slab; This photo shows the 6" thick perimeter insulation 4' deep. The drain pipe which is to be dropped to the bottom of the trench is shown here with a white filter sock over it. |
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Concrete has just been poured and powder colorante is being thrown on the surface. This colorante will be "power troweled" into the concrete surface resulting in an economical floor finish. |
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Concrete slab with added tile red colorante is "setting" awaiting the use of the power trowels. |
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The Apex Building system is a post & beam, straw infill method. |
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Here the rye bales have been just installed and borax "treatment" is being applied. |
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The Truss-free roof system was erected in one day. Another 1/2 day was needed to tighten all the bolts. This unique residential roof is a modified grain bin roof which is very long lasting and needs little maintenance over many decades. |
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This one story octagon with it's truss-free roof system creates a large upper loft space. |
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Completed APEX one story octagon with copper coated modular conical roof. It was built in 1999 through the assistance of an innovative housing grant and corporate sponsors. | |
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Here is an interior view through the south windows of the APEX home. |