Container House Project
2020-
Concept
Versatile Mobile Container House
Based on the Red Container built in 2020, we have explored its potential for various uses, including shops, accommodations, and tiny houses. The Red Container was originally constructed as an event space to showcase the appeal and possibilities of Shinshu Karamatsu (Shinshu larch) in the Saku region of Nagano Prefecture.
With a floor area of 9.9m² and dimensions of approximately 2.3m × 5m, it features a steel base with iron pipes underneath, allowing it to be transported by a 4-ton truck. In addition to festivals and events, it can be customized to serve as a shop, a detached room, or for other purposes.
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© Ph. takeshi noguchi / Drawings, Tono Mirai architects
Please feel free to contact us with your request if you wish to create a project.
A Showcase of Local Materials and Craftsmanship
The Red Container utilizes Shinshu Karamatsu, a larch species grown in Nagano Prefecture. While it is relatively strong for a coniferous tree, it has historically been underutilized as a building material due to its tendency to warp and twist. However, advancements in drying and processing technologies have resolved these concerns, paving the way for its expanded use in various applications.
Shinshu Karamatsu is known for its beautiful reddish hue and distinctive grain. Additionally, to soften the atmosphere of the space, some walls incorporate earth plaster made from locally sourced soil in Nagano. A notable feature of the Red Container is its three-dimensionally twisted roof. The structure showcases the expertise of local artisans, including hand-carved timber joinery by traditional carpenters, earth plastering by skilled plasterers, and handcrafted furniture and fittings by woodworking craftsmen.
Through the Container House Project, we create spaces that not only utilize local materials but also serve as a platform to showcase the craftsmanship of regional artisans.
Plan A
Shop and Rest Area
Equipped with a counter and sink, it can be used for various purposes, including a shop, rest area, or visitor center.
Plan B
Accommodation Room – bed, small kitchen
Designed as a single-occupancy accommodation or a detached room for a residence, it is equipped with a small kitchen and a single bed.
Plan C
Accommodation – bed, bath room, small kitchen
In addition to a small kitchen and a single bed, it is equipped with essential water facilities, including a toilet and a shower room, making it possible to live comfortably in this space.
Plan D
Accommodation – earthen bedroom
The Utsu-wa, designed and proposed by our office, has been adapted to fit within the Container House Project.
Keywords
Architecture Integrated with the Landscape / Plastering / Sustainable / Natural Materials / Craftsmanship / Earthen Walls / Traditional Timber Joinery / Wooden Architecture
Project data
Main Uses — Event Space, Shop, Accommodation, Residence, etc.
Building Area — 9.91㎡
Total Floor Area — 9.91㎡
Number of Floors — 1 Story, Movable
Structure — Traditional Wooden Construction Method
Design — Mirai Tono Architects
Structural Design — Sanso Houtech
Materials – Depending on the site, we use locally sourced timber and logs such as cedar, cypress, and larch.
Please feel free to contact us with your request if you wish to create a project.
