House Extension in Nantes Using Containers
Since the space available for an extension at the side of the 1960s’ house was very tight, the architect had the idea of using redundant steel shipping containers. These had almost the precise dimensions required and were available at a low cost. The new and existing structures are linked by a timber buffer zone. Used as a media library, the ground-floor container now houses the client’s large collection of books, CDs, etc., thus freeing the existing living room. Planning laws required the upper-floor container, which accommodates the new main bedroom, to be cut back in length by five metres. All floors, walls and ceilings in the extension are insulated with cork and clad with fibre-cement sheeting.
