A

PORTABLE LIBRARY
&
INFORMATION UNIT

PRESENTED BY
ALEXANDER AWAJIMELEKNA
TOBIAH
Table of contents
0 0
1 4
0INTRODUCTION A mobile library &
0
information center
2 5
Pros & cons of
Designing a mobile
container library and information
0
architecture unit with
0
shipping container.
3
Construction of 6
container FINANCIAL &
architecture METRICS
 01
INTRODUCTION.
WHAT IS CONTAINER
ARCHITECTURE?
Container Architecture is a form of
architecture that uses steel intermodal
containers as main structural elements. It is
also known as Cargo Architecture. IT refers to
the design and construction Of structures
using pre-fabricated containers typically in
20" or 40“ (I.E 6.09m or12.192m
respectively) lengths, so these containers
are adapted and transformed into functional
spaces for either Residential, Commercial or
Industrial purposes.
Container Architecture offers a modular and
 HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF
CONTAINER ARCHITECTURE
Malcom McLean, also known as "the father of containerization"
developed the metal shipping container in 1956, which revolutionized
the transport to goods worldwide, little did he know at the same time,
his invention would also go on to transform modern architecture
containers for buildings. The use of shipping containers as building
material has been growing in popularity over the past several years.
They are appealing materials due to their fundamental strength and
rather low expense. Container usage is also viewed as more eco-
friendly than traditional building style. Another bid reason architects
and builders are choosing to use containers for their projects is the
widespread availability of them, containers have a very long life span
Although Container
and are being Architecture
stockpiled at portshas beenthe
around around for
world, soyears,
it's anitideal
seems
like it has been
opportunity more prevalent
for builders to take in the past few
advantage of. years. People
worldwide have been using containers to build homes, offices, stores,
malls, hotels and much more.-Containers Architecture was also
referred to as Cargo Architecture or Arkitainer. This form of
architecture is often associated with tiny-house movement as well as
the sustainable living movement. Container Architecture gained
traction in the early 2000s, with the projects like the Container city in
 EVOLUTION OF ARKITAINER
Container architecture, also known as arkitainer or cargotecture, has its roots in
the mid-20th century. Here's a brief history:

1950s-1960s: 1990s-2000s:
The evolution of containers
Container architecture
began with the standardized
gained momentum as an
shipping container, introduced
eco-friendly and cost-
in the 1950s. These 1980s: effective building 2000s-present
containers, initially used for Architects and builders
method. Designers Cargotecture
transporting goods, became started exploring the
began incorporating continued to evolve
popular due to their uniform potential of repurposing
containers into various globally. Notable
size and relatively portable shipping containers for
projects, including examples include the
nature. construction. The first
homes, offices, and Redondo Beach House
notable project was the
temporary structures. in California and the
Container City in London,
built in 1987. It used Keetwonen student
containers to create housing in Amsterdam,
affordable and flexible one of the world's
living and working spaces. largest container
housing projects
Sustainability and Innovation
The 21st century saw a surge in container
architecture driven by sustainability
concerns. Architects and builders
embraced the eco-friendly aspects of
repurposing containers, promoting modular
and efficient construction.

Container architecture has become a

symbol of innovation, sustainability, and
adaptability in the field of construction,
offering unique solutions to housing and
infrastructure challenges.
 02
PROS & CONS OF CARGO
ARCHITECTURE
PROS Rapid
Cost Efficiency
PORTABILITY Development Containers are cost effective
These prefab structures in sense that the are prefab
are highly portable Containers can be structure that come with the
because the can be deployed (moved) basic space defining elements
transported in parts and quickly thereby reducing like the wall(side panels
assembled on site or the time it takes to move 25mm thick),floor and ceiling
transported as a whole from development to or roof(28mm thick). This
and be built on site. production. reduces the cost of
Job creation construction.
Flexibility Eco-Friendly
Container architecture is The use of conatiners for This style of architecture
flexible in the sense that, construction has in turn has been known to be
it allows for easy also created more job favour the environment
construction, opportunities in the more that the
refurbishing and construction industry. conventional mode of
alteration even after construction due to its
PROS & CONS OF CONTAINER ARCHITECTURE

CONS
Heat Gain Complexity
Due to the material Containers can be
these containers are complex to set up and
constructed with, being manage, especially in
corten steel, they large-scale environments.
conduct heat and store it
at high levels.

Temperature regulation
Shipping containers are made of
steel, which means they conduct
heat and cold quickly. This makes
it difficult to regulate the
temperature inside the container
 03
CONSTRUCTION OF CONTAINER ARCHITECTURE
Container architecture involves repurposing shipping containers for
building structures. Here are common construction methods used in
container architecture:
• Site Preparation: Clearing and leveling the construction site to
provide a stable foundation. Ensuring proper drainage and utility
connections.

• Foundation: Containers can be placed directly on a concrete slab

foundation, or elevated on piers, depending on the design and local
building codes.
• Structural Modifications: Cutting openings for doors,
windows, and other architectural features. Reinforcing container
walls after cutting to maintain structural integrity. Welding
containers together for larger structures or stacking them to
create multi-level designs.
• Insulation: Applying insulation to the interior of the container to
regulate temperature and reduce condensation. Common insulation
materials include foam board, spray foam, or traditional fiberglass
insulation.

• Utilities Installation: Adding plumbing and electrical systems within

the container, often connecting to external sources or using
sustainable solutions like solar panels.
• Interior Finishing: Installing flooring, wall finishes, and
other interior elements with go insulation capacity to
create livable or functional spaces. Customizing interiors
based on the intended use like dry walls, rubber flooring
etc, whether it's a home, office, or other structure.
• Exterior Finishing: Painting or cladding the exterior for
aesthetic purposes and to protect against weathering.
Adding additional elements like canopies, balconies, or
green roofs to enhance the façade.

• Design Roofing: Adding a roof structure if containers

are stacked to create multi-story buildings. Incorporating
traditional roofing materials or designing a container-
based roof.
• Design Roofing: Adding a roof structure if containers
are stacked to create multi-story buildings. Incorporating
traditional roofing materials or designing a container-
based roof.

• HVAC Systems: Installing heating, ventilation, and air

conditioning systems as needed for climate(micro)
• Code Compliance: Ensuring that the container
structure complies with local building codes and
regulations.
• Transport and Assembly: Shipping containers to the
construction site and assembling them according to the
design plan.
• Utilizing cranes or other equipment for precise
placement of containers. Container architecture offers a
sustainable and cost-effective alternative for
construction, often with shorter construction times
compared to traditional methods. The adaptability of
shipping containers allows for creative and innovative
designs, making them popular in various architectural
applications.
Materials & finishes for arkitainer
Spray Foam
Insulation Metal Panels
Provides a seamless
Enhance the container's
and airtight barrier,
appearance and protect
commonly used on
against weathering.
container walls.

Fiberglass Wood Cladding

Insulation
Adds a natural and
Traditional insulation
warm aesthetic, often
material applied within
used for exterior
stud framing or directly
siding.
against container walls.

Recycled or Eco- Corten Steel

Friendly Insulation Vinyl Siding
Do you plan on Maintains the
Sustainable options Lightweight and industrial look of shipping containers
like recycled denim or versatile option for while providing corrosion
sheep's wool may be exterior finishing. [Link] it?
used.
 Materials & finishes for arkitainer
Traditional Roofing
Asphalt shingles, metal Plywood
roofing, or other standard Used for a more industrial or
roofing materials may be used raw [Link].
on top of the containers.

Bamboo or
Green Roofs Hardwood
Sustainable options for
Living roofs with vegetation for
flooring and interior finishes
improved insulation and
environmental benefits.

Laminate or Hardwood
Drywall
Provides a polished look
Common interior wall
and easy maintenance.
material for a finished
look.?
Tile or Linoleum
Durable options for
kitchen or bathroom
areas.
 Materials & finishes for arkitainer
Polished Concrete
Sliding or Bifold
Industrial and modern flooring
option. Doors
Maximizes space in smaller
Aluminum or container structures..
Steel Frames
Common materials for window
and door frames.
Anti-Corrosive Coatings
Double-Glazed Essential for maintaining
or Low-E Glass the integrity of the
container structure.
Improves insulation
and energy efficiency. Weather-Resistant
Paints
Protects the exterior from
Custom-Built the elements and
Recycled or
Furniture enhances aesthetics.
Upcycled Furniture
Aligns with the sustainable
Tailored to fit the principles of container
container's dimensions. architecture..
 04
A MOBILE LIBRARY & INFORMATION UNIT
A library is a collection of books, and possibly other
materials and media, that is accessible for use by its
members and members of allied institutions. Libraries provide
physical (hard copies) or digital (soft copies) materials, and
may be a physical location, a virtual space, or both.

A mobile library, as the name implies, would be a structure

which can be moved (disassembled & reassembled ) from one
location to another with ease.

An information unit is a place where members of the public

can get information about an area, organization, activity, etc.

Therefore, a mobile library & information unit is a

moveable structure in which diverse collection of books as
 TYPES OF LIBRARIES
Academic library Special library

These libraries house vast Special libraries are specialized

collections of books, journals, information centers that cater to the
periodicals, databases, and specific needs of organizations,
digital resources covering industries, or professions.
various academic disciplines.

Public library National library

Public libraries are community National libraries hold a special place as
treasures that serve as accessible hubs the custodians of a nation’s cultural
of knowledge and cultural enrichment heritage, intellectual achievements, and
for people of all ages and backgrounds. historical records. These prestigious
These libraries offer various resources, institutions serve as repositories of
including books, e-books, audiobooks, national literature, documents, and
magazines, newspapers, and important collections that reflect the
multimedia materials. identity and history of a country.
 Case study:
French Institute of Andean Studies / Roman Bauer
Arquitectos + ESARQUITECTURA Atelier

• Name of architect: ESARQUITECTURA Atelier, Roman Bauer Arquitectos

• Area: 640 m²
• Year: 2022
• Location: peru, barranco
• Container type: dry cargo containers
• Container sizes: four 40’ and two 20’
Merits Demerits
• Good massing of containers • Its location is hidden
• Proper insulation due to choice of
materials
• Flexible spaces
• Proper lighting and ventilation
• A patio garden which serves as a large
meet space and also helps in lighting
and ventilation
Photo gallery
 Case study 2:
Dpavilion architects: amin shipping container library

• Name of architect: dpavilion architects

• Area: 700 m²
• Year: 2019
• Location: jil. Sultan agung, batu- east java,
Indonesia
• Library type: Academic library
• Client: mr. roony sendjojo
• Container type: dry cargo containers
 Merits Demerits
• Proper lighting and ventilation • Poor façade
• The container where massed in such a • Poor landscaping
way that Each container with a primary
color houses different books
• Shading devices
• Open spaces
• Easy accessibility
• Adequate headroom
 05
Designing a mobile library and
information unit with
Things to consider when designing a portable mobile library and
shipping container.
information unit with a shipping container
• Location: it is important to always consider the location of where the portable library
And information unit will be because it affects the types of materials like books and other
Reading material and also the materials used for finishes.

• Climate: understanding the climatic factors and the surrounding of where the container Will be
located is important because it affects the massing of the containers, arrangement of the spaces,
materials selection, landscaping of the site in relation to the micro climate, sizes of openings,
insulation selection, sound control etc. in other to create a conducive and comfortable environment
and space for the end user to use.

• Construction: considering how this to use the prefabricate structures(containers) to

construct and comfortable and conducive portable library and information unit is very important
Spaces in the library and
information unit
 Collection space.
 Public electronic workstation space.
 User seating [Link] work space.
 Meeting space.
 Special use space.
• Collection space: this is a space where
books are displayed, kept and collected for
usage
• Public electronic workspace: this is a
space that provides the user with computers to carry
out researches and also provides power through
outlets for users with laptops and other electronic
devices.
• User seating space: this is a space dedicated for
the user usually having a seat and a table.
• Meeting space: it is space dedicated to hosting
lectures, classes, large group meetings and other
events
• Special use space: this a utility space like
the panel room, server room and control room
where maintance and other activities are done.