shipping containers shape see-through prefabricated residence in thai forest

Tung Jai Ork Baab utilizes containers in Thai see-through house

Tung Jai Ork Baab (TJOB) unveils the C2 Shelter, a weekend getaway home located in Nakhon Nayok, Thailand. This residence expands upon the private vacation camping OOST Kampville Project, following the completion of the Container Cabin residence in 2022. Nestled amidst a forest of Dipterocarpus alatus (resin trees), the house is constructed using prefabrication materials due to the scarcity of local contractors and skilled workers. The primary internal spaces of the house are repurposed shipping containers, creatively adapted to a smaller scale and new functions.

To enhance its aesthetic appeal, the structure features solid fiber cement and translucent polyester resin roofs that interact with natural light and shadows. During the day, the shelter offers a subtle transparency inside and out. At night, it transforms into a gentle, glowing lightbox that softly illuminates the surrounding forest.

all images courtesy of Tung Jai Ork Baab (TJOB)

prefabricated C2 Shelter features industrial building materials

The name C2 signifies both the see-through nature of the shelter and its role as the second container structure in OOST Kampville. Tung Jai Ork Baab utilizes standard industrial building materials to suit the tropical climate and minimize heat transfer from the containers. Fiber cement, translucent polyester resin with fiberglass roofing, and galvanized steel structures were sourced from local construction shops, retaining their factory finishes for a clean aesthetic. Respecting the natural surroundings, the design positions three 6-meter-long containers within the Dipterocarpus alatus forest, avoiding disruption to existing trees. This layout divides the space into two sections, each featuring two bedrooms connected to a central common area and bathroom. Modest terraces on both sides extend the semi-outdoor living space. The C2 Shelter showcases an economical and efficient construction approach, using prefabricated containers to create a functional living environment. This project highlights the potential of repurposing surplus containers into viable residential structures, particularly in tropical environments like the Dipterocarpus alatus forest.

the C2 Shelter uses pre-fabrication construction

shipping containers serve as the primary internal rooms of the house

solid fiber cement and translucent polyester resin roofs make the shelter appear see-through

Tung Jai Ork Baab incorporates standard industrial building materials

the cabin expands the OOST Kampville Project

standard industrial building materials mitigate heat transfer from the containers

the layout divides the space into two sides, each with two bedrooms

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the design respects the natural surroundings

three six-meter-long containers are arranged without disturbing existing trees

terraces on both sides extend the semi-outdoor living space

diagram by Tung Jai Ork Baab

project info:

name: C2 Shelter at OOST Kampville
designer: Tung Jai Ork Babb (TJOB)

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edited by: thomai tsimpou | designboom