When we want to build a sustainable home, it means reducing labor,

materials and waste generated, and prefab systems seem to be the best way to achieve this.

At the same time, the efficiency of construction time, budget and space is also important,

and shipping containers can meet these needs.

Due to site constraints, planning regulations also required the preservation of surrounding palm trees,

and the home had to comply with BAL-29 bushfire requirements.

This house in Church Point, Sydney has a very distinctive character.

Architects Daniel Raymond and Thomas Martin used shipping containers to overcome the challenges

of this bushland. And with simple design and luxurious decoration, the residence is equipped with a private sky pool.

The home consisted of six 20-foot shipping containers,

all of which were hoisted into place over the course of a weekend.

The upper levels of the house are on the hill behind,

while the ground floor is on the ground below, so the house slopes down with the slope of the site.

The exterior of the shipping container is concealed in a leafy environment, providing a high level of privacy.

Compressed space in the container is freed up as the higher ceilings and large expanses of glazing open up the kitchen and living spaces.

The covered deck surrounds a palm tree, and panoramic windows offer views of Pittwater through the trees.

Window openings were cut from the container on site and prefabricated glazing and framing were installed on site.

The glass panes for windows and shutters are each of the same size, allowing for efficient installation.

Interior walls and ceilings feature water-based lime lime pine plywood and white or black tiles in wet areas.

Laundry pantry is located behind the kitchen for efficient use of space.

The master bedroom, ensuite and powder room adjoin the living room,

and a blade wall defines the location of the bed and separates it from the passageway behind.

The channel is lined with cabinets that double as a walk-in closet.

The suites feature a palette of dark materials, like the exterior of the container,

and louvers promote cross ventilation, bringing northerly breezes through the living areas and bedroom corridors.

Pictures courtesy of   Container hacker