Listen to this Green Air Minute:
Cargotecture: House of tomorrow
by The Green A-TeamHow are leftover shipping containers becoming the houses of tomorrow?
A slow-down in the shipping industry has unused cargo containers collecting dust. This means shipping companies are eager to reduce their surplus by selling these massive metal boxes on the cheap and a new wave of architects is eager to get their welding torches on them.
Dubbed cargotecture, this ingenious housing design strategy takes a fortified stackable structure built ready to withstand even the harshest elements and provides amenities one might find in a modern, newly constructed condominium. Interior space is used efficiently through seamless shelving, tables, and seats that fold up into the walls.
Multi-family units and even public facilities have been constructed using clever variations on this shipping container craftiness. The upcycling of what once took up space in a shipping yard has the potential to eradicate housing issues worldwide.
For some astounding examples of cargotecture, stay tuned for our exclusive walkabout with Chris Parachini and Patrick Martins, owners of Roberta’s Pizzaria and Heritage Radio Network in Bushwick, Brooklyn (pictured).
Also, flip though some of the following links!
Cargotecture: Assembly required (DIY Network)
Cargotecture (Inhabitat)
Photo by rich_awn.