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One Cool Habitat - Exterior<a href="http://www.onecoolhabitat.com/" target="_blank">One Cool Habitat</a>, a prefab maker out of New Zealand, has a different take on <a href="/architecture/prefab-housing/" target="_blank">prefabs</a> than most other manufacturers do. Typically with prefab homes, you get the design they're selling and changes could cost you a pretty penny. <a href="http://www.onecoolhabitat.com/" target="_blank">One Cool Habitat</a> believes that if you're buying space, you should be able to make it however you want. They offer a shipping container <a href="http://www.inhabitat.com/2010/02/12/prefab-friday-archipods-spherical-garden-office-pod/" target="_blank">mini prefab</a> with the adage that it's 'Your Space - Your Way.' They provide the shell, and you furnish it however you like.1
One Cool Habitat - ExteriorOne Cool Habitat wants you have the exact space you need and want, not some cookie cutter house.2
One Cool Habitat - ExteriorBuilt from a 20' shipping container, the windows and doors are cut out and then reinforced with other elements like windows and walls to add strength.3
One Cool Habitat - ExteriorOne Cool Habitat's can be placed anywhere, even high up like this one at their factory. The platform was previously used to hold the trophy for the America's Cup Yachting Tournament when it was in New Zealand.4
One Cool Habitat - ExteriorThe metal cut out for windows and doors is saved and either reused or sent off to companies that rebuild shipping containers.5
One Cool Habitat - ExteriorThe steel window frames are jig welded, and subsequently welded into the openings. Glass is then bonded directly onto the frame, similar to how windscreens are bonded onto a car. This bonding method reduces the use of traditional aluminum extrusions and their associated rubber inserts. This bonding approach also adds strength back into the frame.6
One Cool Habitat - ExteriorA new sliding door system allows for larger doors to be manufactured, and this reduces the footprint by not requiring a clear-way for a swing out door in confined spaces.7
One Cool Habitat - ExteriorThe traditional three-stage process of battening, insulating, and wall facing the internal linings proved time-consuming and relatively uneconomical.8
One Cool Habitat - InteriorA composite panel is now used that offers a high strength, fire retardant, vermin proof, non-sagging insulative alternative that is completely recyclable. Because these panels are able to span their length unsupported from edge to edge, these 'floating walls' greatly reduce the transmission of temperature and noise from the exterior wall and roof areas of the container.9
One Cool Habitat - InteriorThe interior can be outfitted and finished however the owner wants according to their needs, timeframe and budget.10
One Cool Habitat - InteriorThe accessory space can become an extra office, bedroom, studio or even just a place to hang out.11
One Cool Habitat - InteriorThere are many choices available as to what lies underfoot; flooring options will be offered in the form of recycled timber, or a choice of soft linings. Acrylic paint finishes are currently used, and new alternatives are being assessed for extended durability in harsh environments.12
One Cool Habitat - InteriorThe turnkey prefab base model will start at $29,500. One model is inspired by the design of early fifties diners that incorporated elongated panoramic windows, with the functionality of a solid 'skirt' that allows furniture placement at lower levels. The other design is still top secret.13
One Cool Habitat - TransportOne Cool Habitat can easily be transported on the back of a truck and lifted off with a harness.14
