Casa Cúbica turns shipping container into vacation villa

Lloyd Alter (@lloydalter)

Design / Modular Design

May 12, 2014

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© Cubica

Shipping containers are designed for freight, not people, and it can be a

challenge, trying to squeeze a house into them. The designers at Costa

Rica's Cúbica have built some interesting shipping container houses,

including this clever unit.

© 

Cubica

They keep the sun off the container (and maximise the interior space) by

cladding it in metal siding, with an air space behind. Similarly the roof

deck keeps the sun from hitting the container directly. A bump-out

extension is added at one end to provide space for two bunks, as well as

add a little visual variety. The sun shade folds down to seal up the unit

for security.

© C

ubica

Inside, the Murphy bed is hidden behind the fold-down dining room

table.

© 

Cubica

Here's a view with the bed folded down.

© C

ubica

I usually complain that shipping containers are too narrow and tight to

make decent living spaces, but Cúbica have done a really good job of

squeezing everything in here, including a full laundry, a workable

kitchen and a bright bathroom, thanks to that shower with an exterior

door. More at Cubica, via Dornob and Small House Bliss.

© 

The Lotus House at Casa Metta