frederic gaunet: 'self contained module' home

‘self contained module’ by frederic gaunet

french architect frederic gaunet created ‘self contained module’ for organisation men@work. made from three metric tonnes of sheet iron measuring 12,20 x 2,44 m the living space project is competing for the observeur du design 2010 prize this october at the cité des sciences in paris.

working with shipping containers already used for transporting equipment and merchandise, he conducted research, taking into consideration functionality, aesthetics and eco awareness for his proposal.

the module also has an immediate application as a reception facility for international partners and clients of men@work in central africa. studies are also being undertaken for a hotel version, since the ISO 668 rating of the containers means they can be shipped to any part of the world.

particular attention has gone into making the module independent energy-wise. solar panels supply enough electricity for daily use (low energy lighting by LEDs) and even for handling waste water.

natural and local materials, recycled and/or recyclable are used for heat- and sound-proofing (Isocel® cellulose-base insulation for walls and roof) and for the interior and exterior fit-out of the module (composite textiles, woven fibres…).

day/night spaces, circulation and technical installations are laid out around a central block that encloses the wet room, with knock-down/fold-away kitchen and desk. similarly, metal seating can be detached from support rails for use outside the module, where – flipped over they become comfortable deck chairs.

‘everything can be reassembled to make real villas, and all combinations are possible to suit users’. – frédéric gaunet