Thousands of people logged on to the Cooper-Hewitt Web site to cast their vote. The award was bestowed during the New York museum's seventh annual National Design Awards gala in New York.
Cusato, principal of New York-based architecture firm Cusato Associates and founder of Cusato Cottages, conceived the Katrina Cottage as a permanent house that could replace temporary FEMA trailers. Architect and planner Andrés Duany led the development process. The easily-assembled prefab, designed to hold up to 140-mph winds, is constructed of wood or steel framing and is finished with Hardie Board cement siding and a metal roof.
Starting this month, the public will be able to purchase kit versions of four Katrina Cottage designs from retail chain Lowe's.
"The Katrina Cottage is a dignified alternative to conventional temporary housing," says Cooper-Hewitt director Paul Warwick Thompson. "Marianne
Cusato's design offers a long-term solution for displaced families and I'm thrilled that so many people voted for a socially conscious design that could help thousands in need in the Gulf Coast region."
Want to see what 24 hours of creative awesomeness look like? Click here.
This news message is supported by The Creative Finder, an online platform for photographers, illustrators, designers, and art directors to promote their portfolios towards new clients and collaborators. Creatives who wish to sign up for an account can save 10% off annual fees with promo code 'designtaxi'.
