This prototype is based on a conceptual framework from Laurie Garrett, Senior Fellow in Global Health for the Council on Foreign Relations, to convert shipping containers into small health clinics that could be delivered to under-served communities around the world. In spring 2006, students and faculty from the School of Architecture at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, led by Michael Oatman and Ted Krueger, developed the written protocol into a full 8'x8'x20' prototype designed specific to Haiti. The finished design was made using materials and techniques that would be easy to replicate in that region. The clinic, including responsive shading, operable windows and doors, moveable shelving, rainwater collection, and a low-tech sink, is meant to provide primary care, vaccinations for major killer diseases (malaria, TB, Hepatitis), and community support and health awareness.
Location
- Adaptive Re-use
- Buildings - Detached
- Climate - Subtropical
- Climate - Tropical
- Context - Rural
- Context - Urban
- Health Clinic
- Healthcare
- Low Maintenance
- Materials - Alternate
- Materials - Local/Indigenous
- Materials - Reused/Recycled
- Mobile/Demountable
- Non-Profit/ Community-based
- Self-Help/Volunteer Construction
- Solar - Active
- Student Work
- Council on Foreign Relations
- RPI
- shipping container
- United States
Comments
Emily,
This is an awesome project. Out of curiosity do you expect it to b in operation in Haiti? kas
I am currently writing a dissertation on how to reach thermal comfort when adapting shipping containers to livable spaces. I intend to find both high tech options as well as vernacular methods for insulating these metal boxes depending on their geographical location and climate. What methods have you considered? I would much appreciate any information on the subject or any insights on further research.
Thanks