Shipping Container Art Gallery. Image credit: Tomokazu Hayakawa Architects
A couple in Tokyo had an idea to create a combined shipping container art gallery/studio – but there was one big problem.
Construction laws in Japan make it illegal to build using shipping containers as the main structure and instead require JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards) materials.
It might have been tempting to just give up on the plan and move on, however the architects involved in the build (Tomokazu Hayakawa) took a different approach.
What happened next is a lesson in container architecture problem solving I really admire.
These images show the impressive end result and unless you knew otherwise it looks like a standard shipping container structure. Can you guess how they did it?
Image credits: Tomokazu Hayakawa Architects
Their idea was to build timber frames which match the size of a shipping container and then clad those frames with container steel cut outs. Voila..a building that looks just like it’s made from shipping containers but still within local Japanese building law.
Should Japan update their building laws? 5 reasons why container architecture is so popular.
Strength
When shipping containers are manufactured they are engineered to carry heavy cargo loads over many years, as well as be stacked one on top of another so they are strong. The strength of the four corner posts also mean that a shipping container structure does not require foundations laid as would be the case in a traditional building.
Durability
Because containers are built from corten steel, primed and sprayed in marine grade paint they are built to last and withstand harsh conditions such as those seen at sea. This kind of durability is good news for anyone thinking of converting containers for another use.
Availability
Why create something new to build with when it already exists? Even if you are buying a container that has been used at sea for 10-12 years+ it should still be entirely structurally sound and suitable for conversion.
Lower expense
Compared to traditional building materials shipping containers are likely to cost less. And because the boxes can be lined/insulated there is no reason for you to lower your expectations of a comfortable environment.
Modular
Like Lego, stack one on top of the other and even create amazing looking overhanging containers. By cutting the ends or sides out of a container and interlocking with another box you’re able to create spacious areas with ease.
Once you need to move the containers they can be disconnected and relocated to another location. Visually appealing, spacious and mobile.
Could your shipping container art gallery become art itself?
‘The Journey’ Image credit: Out of the Blue Communications
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‘The Journey’ was an exhibition put together using shipping containers supplied by Adaptainer and was visited by almost 12,000 visitors in London’s Trafalgar Square within just 8 days.
As well as exterior artwork painted to the containers there was also a walkway gallery through interconnecting tunnel units.
Shipping containers and art are becoming more and more popular, with some shipping containers becoming pieces of art themselves – whereas others are used as studios or galleries. By combining both you perhaps have an epic win.
Editors note: Thank you to Tomokazu Hayakawa Architects for their permission to use images displayed within this post. Adaptainer had no part in the supply, design or construction of the Tokyo Shipping Container Art Studio/Gallery project.