Designer homes from containers
BCM accepts technologist’s submission
APASSIONATE young architectural technologist was surprised and delighted when his citizen’s submission to the Buffalo City Metro (BCM) IDP on how to turn shipping containers into sturdy designer homes for the poor was accepted.
Karl Thurston, 27, who works in the property and services department at the East London branch of the University of Fort Hare, is registered as a candidate to write the SA Council for the Architectural Profession’s professional practice exams.
He was delighted when told that his submission was highlighted at the BCM IDP external representative forum attended by business, officials, academics and ratepayers.
“I briefly researched informal dwellings in Nompumelelo and Mzamomhle and presented a motivation on how doors and windows can be cut from a container.
“The bedroom, living area, ablution and kitchenette areas are mapped out and dry walling and cladding with vertical and horizontal insulation are planned.
“For air flow and storm run-off protection, the container is raised on concrete posts or a little base, and decks can be built around.
“A zinc roof is built which sits above the container and creates overhanging shaded areas.”
He said municipal water and sewer pipes are linked to the home, which beats having an outside toilet.
“Containers are used as clinics, offices, and at construction sites across Africa. They are made to endure on the high seas and are seriously durable.
“I want BCM to explore this option as an alternative to interim or temporary housing. When hard rain hits informal settlements, these homes can be a viable substitute. They are part of future sustainable development,” Thurston said.
“I’m grateful for BCM’s interest and hoping they can focus on less privileged people in the East London community.”
Thurston, who grew up in Mthatha, went to Port Rex Technical High in East London and studied at Durban University of Technology.
“I have a passion for property development. My grandfather, Patrick Thurston, owned land in Transkei and was in the block-making business. He owned Anchorage Hotel on the Wild Coast.”
AJ Corbett, president of the Border-Kei Institute of Architects, said: “The problem with containers are the ceiling heights and insulation but you can cut doors and windows and you are away. Containers have been used in Johannesburg as student housing, so yes, we’d be interested in it as an alternative in the housing market.”
He cautioned, however, that housing solutions went beyond structures and had to take in the design of a community. — mikel@dispatch.co.za