Mobile homes: can it be implemented in Pakistan?

[Al Bhatti]

life in container, its like a prison really...

Can the below be used or implemented in Pakistan?

For example in some out skirts of UK people can pay rent to the government for a piece of land which comes to a very small amount. And people have portacabin or container houses with gardens and garage and all the facilities.

In Pakistan government can allocate large un-used areas of land for this purpose and get revenues in the form of rent and provide homes to homeless people.

Cost effective, as people say government does not have money (which is not true at all)

Smartbox

Smartbox

Container Homes • Shipping Container Housing Solutions

Two shipping containers flank a taller common space in this residence designed by Studio H:T. The bedrooms are in the containers while the entry, dining, living, and a loft is in the center area. The project is planned to be off-the-grid using solar orientation, passive cooling, green roofs, pellet stove heating, and photovoltaics to create electricity.

Benjamin Garcia Saxe Architecture designed this orange container home for clients in San Jose, Costa Rica. The goal was to provide them with the spectacular views of the natural landscape. The roof between the two containers is made from the scrap metal.

Copenhagen-based architecture firm arcgency created the “WFH House” in Wuxi, China, out of three stacked shipping containers. Upcycled steel shipping containers were used for a steel frame, which was then clad with a sustainable bamboo facade. The home includes a rainwater collection system, solar cell-clad green roof, skylights, and permeable paving.

This structure, which was exhibited at the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City and the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis is called the MDU, or Mobile Dwelling Unit, and was designed by Lot-EK. It is meant to travel with its dweller to long term destinations. When traveling, its sub-volumes are pushed in to fill the entire container, and then interlock so the container is left flush and can be shipped worldwide. When in use, the sub-volumes are pushed out, and its 500-square-foot interior is suitable for living and working.

@Cheetah786 @Akheilos

 

[Al Bhatti]

Note the white corrugated wall; that should tip you off that this is the interior of a shipping container home. In fact, this Houston residence is composed of three containers, to make a total of 1,538-square feet of living space. Architect Christopher Robertson of local firm Robertston Design says one of the goals was to make it feel like a typical home.

Poteet Architects, a firm known for its adaptive reuse of existing buildings, designed this 32-square-foot guest house in San Antonio, Texas using a shipping container. The interior is lined with bamboo plywood for the floor and the walls and the deck is made out of recycled soda bottles. It has a planted roof too.

The emerald green-accented Crossbox house in Brittany, France was designed by CG Architects. Two shipping containers are cantilevered above two more, and there’s a planted roof too. Like traditional setups, the bedrooms are on top and the living/dining spaces below.

This Adam Kalkin Container House in Califon, New Jersey, is three shipping containers wide by two shipping containers tall. Glass on two sides allows ample light to shine in, and the industrial materials continue throughout, with a concrete floor and steel beams and columns. Rustic fir flooring and mahogany closing doors ensures it works in its wooded surroundings.

This perfectly simple, wood clad, absolutely horizontal 40-foot cargo container house sits on a flat site in the Galician countryside of Spain. Its porch and removable awning allow for outdoor enjoyment, which is ideal since it’s a summer house. It was designed by architects Severo Fernández and Basilio Rodríguez of Estudio Base.

 

[Al Bhatti]

 

[Al Bhatti]

CONTAINER HOUSE

STEEL BUILDING

CAR GARAGE

 

[Leader]

Im all up for container shops for the northern areas,even rent houses if they are feasible... but houses are difficult choice in low lands like punjab and sindh, as in the summers it would be impossible to live inside..

 

[Spring Onion]

hmmm mobile homes we already have ))))))))))))))))))))) nomads carry these with them depending on different seasons

 

[SarthakGanguly]

Also check the 'Tiny House' videos on Youtube/other sites. Awesome, simple and beautiful.

hmmm mobile homes we already have ))))))))))))))))))))) nomads carry these with them depending on different seasons

Aap bhi na...

 

[Al Bhatti]

Im all up for container shops for the northern areas,even rent houses if they are feasible... but houses are difficult choice in low lands like punjab and sindh, as in the summers it would be impossible to live inside..

FAQ

1 Shipping containers are hot ovens and not fit for human habitation.
http://www.smartbox.ae/smart.php#
Any non-insulated structure can become hot and unsuitable for human habitation in the summer months. A shipping container is as responsive to insulation as any other structure or material. All SMART modules are insulated with Rockwool or PU sandwich panels resulting in a more efficient insulated environment than a standard brick and mortar construction.

2 Shipping containers should not be used for housing because they quickly become old and rusty housing.

Shipping containers are constructed with Corten steel and then coated with epoxy paint, thereby making it near impossible for them to corrode. Any scratched, dented and untreated metal will oxidize and in time corrode. In the rare case this happens, it can be repaired easily. A shipping container home constructed according to building codes will be the most maintenance free structure you could have.


3 Shipping containers cannot meet conventional housing standards or building codes and therefore should not be considered for use in construction.

As proven by the actual tests and certifications a shipping container, when used far exceeds any international building standards.
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4 Can the product be recycled after its first use? If so how?

Yes. The converted container’s life does not end after use with its current conversion. After its usage, it can be re-modified and refurbished for another type of use or relocated to another location. As the very end of its use, the steel shell can be sold as scrap and recycled for further use in the industry.
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5 Is the product designed for dis-assembly?

Yes. It can be dis-assembled, reconverted and transported to any other location.
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6 What is the period Warranty or Guarantee?

The structure is under warranty for 20 years. However, with minimal maintenance, the shell can last over 50 years.
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7 Does the SMART Modules meet International Building Codes?

Yes. SMART Modules meet and exceed all IBC and UBC codes as a base structural unit. Please refer to the Comparison section for more information.
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8 How much does a SMART Module cost?

The cost varies according to the type of product and the specificatons required. The initial cost out lay does not reflect the true savings of SMART constructs on. When attributes such as

• saving on foundations
• speed of construction
• faster ROI
• low maintenance
• salvage value, are factored, there is no better construction solution available in today’s world.

9 How does SMART Modules compare with Porta-cabins?

The benefits of SMART modules far out weigh that of Porta-cabins (see Benefits section for full list of benefits). The main differences are;

• SMART modules are made of steel as opposed to a wood based structure in porta-cabins
• SMART Modules are made to last over 50 years. Portacabins on the other hand, wear away easily in our regional weather conditions
• Porta-cabins are prone to damage during transportation and due to the width of the cabins, transportation on local roads may require special permissions or may face restrictions.
• Porta-cabins are cheaper than SMART modules however, there is significant recurring maintenance cost associated with the employment of Porta-cabins.
• Porta-cabins are prone to Earthquakes, Fire, Termite, mould and other damaging factors that may severely affect its inhabitants.
• The salvage value when compared to SMART modules are virtually zero.
• Porta-cabins cannot be stacked without proper support frames. This is an additional cost and restricted to 2 to 3 high stacking.
• Porta-cabins are not a Eco-friendly solution.

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10 Can you supply off-shore certified converted containers?

Yes, we can supply offshore certified converted containers in accordance with DNV 2.7-1 standards. Note that the procedure requires drawing approvals at the initial stage and class society supervision for the manufacturing process before the units can be certified.
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11 Can you undertake installation work including external MEP at site?

We specialise in container conversion and hold an industrial licence to undertake this business. As we are not authorized as civil or MEP contractors, all external works need to be outsourced. The same can be undertaken by a sub-contractor, subject to approved drawings and the requisite statutory approvals from the authorities (which falls under the purview of the client). The services of an approved consultant shall be required for the same. For installation, depending on the location, Smart Box can undertake with its partners. Smart Box can depute experienced supervisors to site to coordinate with local labour to install the SMART modules.
http://www.smartbox.ae/smart.php#
12 Can you take all requisite approvals from Government authorities?

For all Government approvals, an approved consultant is required and should be appointed by the client. Smart Box will provide all required drawings, technical data and information to facilitate the process. For additional information Smart Box can facilitate to appoint reputed consultants on behalf of the client. e.g. structural analysis and certification, a structural consultant must be appointed.
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13 Can you provide plumbing specification in accordance with IPC 2009?

Yes. In addition, we can also provide special requirements such as DWV (drain/waste/vent) systems. Plumbing systems can be provided to meet ASTM standards.
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14 What are the electrical earth provisions in a container?

An earth boss is provided which is connected to the earth line of the mains in the distribution box. In addition, earth leakage circuit breakers with 30mA or 60mA tripping capacity is provided as a standard.
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15 What is the prevention against electrical shock in a container?

The prevention against electrical shock in a container has been mentioned above. For humans, a threshold of 30mA current is incorporated in the ELCB which shall trip in case of an earth fault, which means that if someone is subject to a live wire, the circuit shall trip within milliseconds. Every container body is earthed to the system earth line to prevent the body from becoming live due to any fault.
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16 What is the sound insulation in a converted unit?

The sound insulation in a container depends on the type of insulation provided, which can be either PU sandwich panel, rockwool sandwich panel, laminated MDF with rockwool insulation, gypsum board with rockwool insulation, calcium silicate board with rockwool insulation, HPL sheet with rockwool insulation, magnesium oxide board with rockwool insulation, plywood with rockwool insulation etc. Sound attenuation depends on the design and type of unit being converted.
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17 Can you provide 3m wide containers?

For a 3m wide container, Smart Box will have to custom fabricate the same by joining an extension to the side of a container. However, the finished unit will no longer have valid CSC certification and hence, not be seaworthy. All custom fabricated units are suited for land installations.
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18 What is the maximum height inside a converted container?

For a 40ft high cube container, the maximum internal height is 2.4m with insulation. Without insulation, on container bare ceiling, 2.84m (for 40’ high cube containers) and 2.39m (in 20’ and 40’ standard containers).
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19 Do 40’ containers have fork lift pockets?

No. Standard forklifts are not designed to lift 40ft containers due to the load and balance.
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20 What type of Electrical cabling do you use?

Normally we use BS/IEC standard size PVC sheathed cables that vary from 1.5mm to 10mm, depending on the current load. For NEC standards, we use THHN cables which are UL listed. The cabling colour coding is in accordance with the standards. We can cater to any international electric standard if required, e.g. NEC standard (USA).
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21 What type of plumbing materials do you use?

For black water and grey water lines, PVC schedule-40 pipes in accordance with IPC 2009 and for fresh water, PPR pipes.
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22 What are the certifications provided with a converted container?

A CSC certificate is issued by a qualified IICL surveyor for seaworthiness. If a load test and MPI is required, then a 3rd party certificate is issued from a certified body. DNV witness test for load test as well as MPI test can be provided as per request.

Smartbox

 

[Spring Onion]

sites. Awesome, simple and beautiful.

Aap bhi na...

No i am serious. The ones posted bhy bhati are just another luxury or ayashi . The nomads have been having self-styled economical mobile homes. The idea of mobile homes in the west is totally different than our circumstances and economic conditions

 

[SarthakGanguly]

No i am serious. The ones posted bhy bhati are just another luxury or ayashi . The nomads have been having self-styled economical mobile homes. The idea of mobile homes in the west is totally different than our circumstances and economic conditions

That, I am afraid, is very true

 

[Al Bhatti]

Im all up for container shops for the northern areas,even rent houses if they are feasible... but houses are difficult choice in low lands like punjab and sindh, as in the summers it would be impossible to live inside..

A contianer city Container City | Adventures in New Zealand

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I am not asking bars to be made of course

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A 54,000-square-foot container city located in Puebla, Mexico | Container City

Container City® - Galeria

 

[syedali73]

Why not but why exactly? as cheaper alternative to concrete-based houses? Targeting specific income group? What advantage(s) these mobile homes will offer in the context of Pakistan? Please elaborate.

 

[Al Bhatti]

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Colourful & arty library architecture in Indonesia

Amazing container architecture in Australia

A Puma store made out of shipping containers

As sustainable design becomes a standard code of practice among architects, the use of discarded shipping containers has surfaced as a popular building component. In the past, I have written about numerous projects, from homes to restaurants, which have used this method of construction. This new movement, coined as “cargotecture” presents a new architectural framework that upholds values of reusing and recycling.

WHY USE CONTAINERS?
For starters, they are inexpensive. Their ready-to-go nature allows architects to extend from its four walls rather than have to build ground up. An empty container can range from $2,800 to $4,800 depending on size, which rounds off to a relatively low-cost option for custom architecture. Along with its affordable price tag, it is versatile. The containers have a sturdy, weather-resistant body which means it can be used for everything from pop-up restaurants to new-generation disaster relief housing.

ADAPTING GREEN DESIGN
Its versatility allows the containers to be used as low-impact building blocks. They serve to accommodate energy-efficient spaces, where high-quality insulation installations and open-air ventilation can lower overall energy usage to par with traditional homes. Their flat surfaces mean that solar paneling can easily be installed atop of these containers, a popular and affordable option for home owners who have saved thousands in building materials.

Hybrid Architecture’s ‘Idea House’ made for Sunset Magazine, built using a single 24′ cargo container equipped with kitchen, bath and bunk bed bedrooms. | Source: Hybrid Architecture HyBrid ARC

Joel Egan, principal of HyBrid Architecture, the firm who coined “cargotecture” in 2004, believes that this approach has prevailed as a fitting option for home buyers and builders, saying:

“Given these turbulent economic times and the desire for more sustainable buildings, cargotecture is a unique way to build affordable, modern and green. The buildings can also be picked up and moved to a different site which has definite advantages in the current market.”

With Egan, New Jersey-based architect, Adam Kalkin is another leading visionary in the field, having already taken upon a breadth of projects from luxury homes to mobile museums using these pre-fabricated building blocks. His ‘12 container house’ is perhaps one of his more inventive undertakings given the sheer scale of the project. The house, located in Maine, covers close to 4000 square feet. The dozen containers were used primarily as a supporting body for a glazed glass structure that would front both sides of the home.

Adam Kalkin’s ’12 Container House’ in Maine | Source: Peter Aaron, Esto architecture and hygiene - index


Source: Peter Aaron, Esto architecture and hygiene - index

Along with being used for luxurious homes, as illustrated by Kalkin’s works, they serve as the ideal temporary sites for disaster relief housing. The Green Container International Aid have spearheaded this movement, building cargo homes for countries that have been affected by natural disasters from Pakistan to Haiti, through the guidance of Richard Moreta, a pioneering American architect. In 2010, he envisioned the ‘Amphibious Container,’ a floating home supported by recycled inner tubes from trucks, designed to rise with floods. The structure, made of discarded construction parts, is also fitted with multiple environmental features such as wind turbines, green roofs and solar panels. As he explains:

“Because shipping containers are in essence a structural shell, they prove to be an excellent solution in seismic, hurricane and now with the amphibious design in flood areas while satisfying the American and international structural code provisions.”


The ‘Amphibious Container’ houses use inner tubes to create floating device, an efficient anti-flooding mechanism | Source: GREEN CONTAINER INTERNATIONAL AID - GCIA is an international NGO providing disaster relief and long term planning for the Population displaced product of a Natural catastrophe. HOTLINE: Philippines, Floods 12 August 2012   HOTLINE: Turkey, Earthquake 23 October 2011 Haiti, Earthquake  12 January 2010  Pakistan, Floods  August 2010  Ghana, Floods  June 2010  Nigeria, Floods  September 2010  


Source: GREEN CONTAINER INTERNATIONAL AID - GCIA is an international NGO providing disaster relief and long term planning for the Population displaced product of a Natural catastrophe. HOTLINE: Philippines, Floods 12 August 2012   HOTLINE: Turkey, Earthquake 23 October 2011 Haiti, Earthquake  12 January 2010  Pakistan, Floods  August 2010  Ghana, Floods  June 2010  Nigeria, Floods  September 2010  

After the Haiti earthquake in 2010, Moreta proposed to build a container city to shelter displaced victims of the earthquake, a bold initiative that has since been approved by Dominican authorities. Building vast cargo cities is, of course, no new concept, seeing as architects have already ventured into constructing full-scale neighborhoods in numerous cities from London to the quaint Mexican town of Puebla. But Moreta’s vision is to not only build a temporary housing site, but rather build homes that are equipped to withstand and combat future disasters with its efficient zero-energy design.


Source: Richard Moreta’s Haiti Container City Richard Portfolio Architecture & Design - Home


Source: Richard Moreta’s Haiti Container City Richard Portfolio Architecture & Design - Home


London’s Container City I project in Trinity Buoy Wharf was completed in 2005 in five months. | Source: Pop-Up City

That is perhaps the magical part of these containers; they have captured the imagination of architects and designers in a way that and inspires green design across the spectrum from humanitarian causes to contemporary architecture.

Cargotecture: A New Way Of Building – Urban Times​

 

[Al Bhatti]

Why not but why exactly? as cheaper alternative to concrete-based houses? Targeting specific income group? What advantage(s) these mobile homes will offer in the context of Pakistan? Please elaborate.

many factors.

Government officials, politicians, decision makers can study it and plan accordingly it is their job they get paid big amounts and get many other benefits for doing it not me

 

[Leader]

yeah, lets discuss cost, are they even affordable?