The term 5 over 1 building refers to a type of wood-framed residential building that stands at five stories tall, built on top of a concrete platform. It is also known as five plus one building.
This platform typically serves as a commercial space or parking lot. The 5 over 1 approach is commonly used for constructing apartments and increasing urban density. Compared to steel-framed apartment buildings, they are a more cost-effective and time-efficient construction method.
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What Is 5 Over 1 Building?
5 over 1 building is a type of apartment or condo building that is made of wood framing on top of a concrete base. They are a cheaper option than buildings made entirely of steel or concrete.
The concrete base allows builders to make the building one story taller than a typical wood-framed building, which means there can be apartments above commercial space on the first floor.
These buildings are popular in cities because they can fit more apartments on the same amount of land as single family homes.
In the United States, the building code allows for buildings made of up to 5 stories of wood framing, but the concrete base is considered a different type of building.
Advantages Of 5 Over 1 Buildings
- Low construction cost: The primary benefit of 5 over 1 buildings is their low construction cost. Building with wood framing is less expensive than using steel or concrete, making it an attractive option for developers looking to save money.
- Desirable urban locations: These buildings are often located in desirable urban communities, offering residents access to amenities and functionality that many older buildings in those areas lack.
- Affordability: Because of their cost-effective construction, 5 over 1 buildings can be more affordable for residents than other types of buildings.
- Height maximization: The concrete podium of 5 over 1 buildings provides a solid structure for maximizing height while still allowing for up to five stories of wood-framed construction.
Disadvantages Of 5 Over 1 Buildings
- Fire risk: Wood-framed construction always carries a risk of fire, and 5 over 1 buildings rely heavily on wood. Safety and fire codes for wooden structures can be difficult to navigate, leading to potential safety hazards for residents. For example, a fire in one apartment in New Jersey occurred between the wood walls where there were no sprinkler alarms.
- Monotonous architecture: From a design perspective, 5 over 1 buildings tend to have a boxy, repetitive appearance. This uniformity can detract from a neighborhood’s unique character and sense of place.
Sum Up
While 5 over 1 buildings offer cost-effective and practical advantages, they also pose potential safety risks and can detract from a neighborhood’s unique character.
As with any building design, it is essential to carefully consider both the benefits and drawbacks before proceeding with construction.