Urban Green Design

The conceptual design for the Origami Cabin strives for holistic sustainability through social, economic and ecological sustainable design. The concept is inspired by traditional Japanese architecture and its efficient use of space as well as the use of horizontal and vertical lines to visually enhance the space. The use of natural materials in keeping with traditional Japanese architecture also promotes the incorporation of oneself into the outdoors.

Features of the cabin design are numerous: The layout seeks to maximize the structural capacity of the shipping container while at the same time promote the ability to fold into itself so that it can be closed and protected during the off-season or easily moved to another site. Through maximizing windows and creating translucent interior partitions, the interior of the container cabin becomes visually larger than it actually is. All door opening are sliding to allow for both compact folding and so as to not impede any path of travel. The exterior of the design seeks to integrate with its site specific exposed container painted colors and native plants that reflect the container cabins specific surroundings. Universal design is promoted in the design throughout with a ramped entrance, sliding doors (both entry and interior), low or no threshold doorways, an adjustable height table, an open floor plan, easy to grip handles and meets ADA requirements. Integrated storage in the platform beds maximizes all the space available and provides another functional design element for the end user. In addition to user function, the Origami Cabin promotes energy efficiency with a high level of insulation and air sealing, controlled ventilation, and LED lighting all powered with an integrated rooftop photovoltaic system.