KG Anilkumar, the owner of ICL Fincorp has surprised everyone by building a unique house using shipping containers in a 3.5 cents plot, close to his house in Irinjalakuda, Thrissur, Kerala. Interestingly, Dr. Thomas Majooran, a noted architect who has designed many buildings for the family deserves credit for giving shape to this splendid container house.
The double-story house of 800 sqft was built using three containers that are around twenty feet long and seven feet wide and tall. The beautiful house has living and dining areas, a kitchen and a bath-attached bedroom on the ground floor. Meanwhile, the upper floor has a bath attached bedroom and an open balcony.
Two containers have been used to construct the ground floor while one container sits on the top. Six concrete pillars were built as the first step of construction. The containers that were brought in lorries were then carefully locked on to these pillars using crane. Interestingly, these containers could be separated and moved to a different location, if required.
Thomas Manjooran confesses that many were skeptical about the feasibility of a container house in the hot and humid climate of Kerala. However, there are many features that help in effectively preventing excess heat inside the house. The walls and the ceiling are lined with fibre cement boards which is then coated with XLPE or polyethylene sheets. The architect vows that this prevents heat up to ninety-five percent. So, the interiors are cool and pleasant even during the noon when the sun is the harshest.
Glass which prevents heat has been used in the entrance area. Meanwhile, in–built seating has been arranged in the dining area. It is truly incredible that the interiors could be rearranged as per the family’s wishes. The kitchen is quaint and has cabinets done in plywood with laminate finish.
The designer spiral staircase in cast iron is an interesting feature. Meanwhile, a hydraulic cot which could be easily lifted and attached to the wall has been arranged in the bedroom on the upper floor.
Artificial grass has been used in the yard to make maintenance easier. The metal furniture perfectly complements the overall look of the house.
Even though container houses could be completed in just three months, it took almost six months to build this house as the designer wasn’t ready to compromise on the quality of the materials. Moreover, a container house could be built for Rs 1000 – 1500 per square foot. The unique features of this fabulous house are further accentuated when the highlighter lights are switched on at night.
Project Facts
Location – Irinjalakuda
Area – 800 SFT
Owner – KG Anilkumar
Designed by - Illusions Magic of Interiors, Thrissur
Video, photos: Ajith
