Container city visit

Ok, I think this post is slightly premature but I couldn't resist, Container City was such a fantastic space I had to get this published. The reason for the visit was in search of inspiration and enlightenment on how the space and the containers actually work and I went with a few intentions:

- How do the containers combine to formulate a live/work space/city?

- How do they work in terms of construction/modification? 

- How do its users actually use the space that it provides?

Again, the reason behind these questionings is due to the fact that we have actively discussed the use of containers within the Creekside space due their modular and 'recycled' nature, so I sought inspiration all round and I can safely say I found it. 

Container City itself has been devised by Urban Space Management Ltd who basically link together pre-fabricated steel modules that have an intrinsic strength which successfully combines to create a wide variety of shapes and structures. The company has installed a multitude of these city constructions around the country for retail, studio, youth centres and live/work spaces. It is a relatively low cost approach that boasts the following:

- Natural ventilation 

- Improved insulation

- Aluminium framing

- Rainwater harvesting, plant nurseries and green roofs where applicable

It was interesting then so how how these constructions worked together and how people functioned within them.

On site there were a range of experimental container conversions complementing the nature of the space. 

This particular studio consisted of a maximum of 3 designers working within a space constructed of 2 40ft containers at a height of approximately 2.6 meters at any one time. The space was divided into two compartments, one half for work whilst machinery and equipment occupied the other. The immediate impression/atmosphere was one of cosy spaciousness, not cramped but comfortable. I mention this as it has been pointed out that containers may in fact be too constricting for some art/design uses, fine artists perhaps, but it is clear that a smaller, less roomy space could accommodate users who don't require such flamboyant proportions. This is a factor we have to consider when contemplating container usage.