Ship Me Home is a repurposed shipping container designed as a temporary residence for a member of the homeless community
Design Challenge
Design a temporary housing solution for a client part of the homeless community, who is partially wheelchair bound. The space should be accessible and orderly as the client is an ex-naval worker. Our client finds it important to have an area to gather as well as a separate area to preform wheelchair repairs.
Meet Raven, Our Client.
Our client Raven is a ex-naval maintenance worker. Raven is very proud of the work he has done in the navy as well as his time spent working with megaphone. He really enjoys helping others, and in his spare time Raven likes to do maintenance on wheelchairs similar to his own.
Site Location - 268 Union St.
This lot was chosen for its flat topography and quiet neighbourhood. The site is in proximity to supermarkets, community centers, parks, and excellent transit.
Design Concept.
This design draws inspiration from our clients past with feelings of nostalgia appearing upon boarding the vessel. Continuity from the stern to the bow references a naval ship, with linearity and closure inviting you into the home. A strong sense of order is present with the use of clean lines and ease of access. To alleviate physical stress of mobility; perching and seating spots have been placed throughout and add a layer of comfort for our client, they also serve as a gathering space for visiting guests. The living space is extended with the wake and acts as a separate space for the maintenance and repair of wheelchairs.
Site Layout
When multiple vessels come into play we couldn't dock them anywhere else but at a marina.
The linear path down the center acts as a boardwalk with the homes docking off either side.
In this array we have the units aligned longitudinally from the North to South. The alignment is very important to take advantage of natural light opportunities with the long skylights in homes like Raven's.
Units are staggered on either side of the boardwalk with trees and other foliage to ensure a level of privacy between units.