New Jerusalem Orphanage is a Vibrant Shipping Container Home for South African Kids

We love <a href="http://inhabitat.com/tag/recycled-shipping-containers/">recycled shipping containers</a>, but we especially love to see them used in a humanitarian context that literally saves lives. <a href="http://www.newjerusalemchildrenshome.org.za/">The New Jerusalem Orphanage</a> is a sanctuary for up to 80 orphans in South Africa. Designed by <a href="http://4da.co.za">4D and A Architects</a>, this colorful container house is complete with lovely light-filled rooms and mosaic detailing. Pick up a kleenex and flip through our gallery of these gorgeous images by <a href="http://www.dennisguichard.com">Dennis Guichard</a> for a closer look.

4D and A Architects designed this vibrant new shipping container home for South African orphans

This is the first of four double houses

Each double house provides rooms for 24 children and two house mothers

Dining, kitchen and lounge areas are shared between two houses

Recycled shipping containers were used as the main building material

Using the shipping containers allowed the design team to cut costs by a quarter

The interior brims with daylight

The idea was to create an inspiring space that would make the children feel loved again

There are about 80 orphans at the New Jerusalem Orphanage

Eventually the founders hope to incorporate advanced learning tools for the children whose development has been stunted by their circumstances

Circular cutouts create a portal to the outside world

The bright colors are an inspired choice

Funding for the orphanage comes from various sources

NGOs, private donors, businesses and the Office of Social Development have helped to keep the orphanage afloat

Great care has been taken with all details, which helps to make the kids feel special

Mosaic detailing on the wall is a nice touch

In time, an additional three units like this will be constructed

Cantilevering containers create shade below

Openings on all ends ensure that the entire facility is both well lit and ventilated

Dennis Guichard is the photographer responsible for these gorgeous images