smartkabine flexible container workplace by ruimtewerkers

‘smartkabine’ flexible container workplace by ruimtewerkers
all images courtesy of ruimtewerkers

the winning design for a container workspace competition, was awarded to ‘smartkabine’ by spatial design and communication agency ruimtewerkers based in ghent, belgium. the brief required a functional, innovative and original interior for a contemporary workplace, to be situated on DOK in ghent. ‘smartkabine’ is focused around sustainability and flexibility, created in a limited space (255 cm high, 136 cm wide and 205 cm deep) it is a unique workplace where people can retreat, while at the same time enjoy the view and natural surroundings. the concept is influenced by its context – the industrial landscape, harbour and the water, while the requirements for a successful workspace, flexibility, peacefulness, simplicity, fresh air and a nice view are incorporated into the design.

‘we used the location as well as the activities on the DOC site as a source for the design. on one hand the temporary interpretation of the site by DOK, on the other hand the future (r)evolution of the site in the next 10, 20 years.’ explain the designers, ‘the container became a subject in dialogue with both shores. majestic cranes form an invisible connection across the water. cranes who have lost their function. one already reclassified, the other awaiting a new future. an object causing tension between two peaceful industrial icons.’

‘smartkabine’ located on the highest point of the DOK-site

the sustainable design is made from a recycled structure with a solar chimney for ventilation, green roof and eco-friendly insulation for a comfortable indoor climate. one side of the container has been cut out and replaced with glass, creating large view overlooking the open water. a personalized co-working space with a clean interior, every necessity is available but hidden behind shutters to minimize clutter. the flexible workplace can be used in multiple ways, opening or closing a shutter creates a table, chair or bench. it also provides the option to wait for clients while relaxing in a hammock and absorbing the surrounding vista.

the ‘smartkabine’ can be visited until september 29. located on the highest point of the DOK-site during august and september. to find out how the smartkabine can be used as a workplace visit here. 

 
smartkabine located on the highest point of the DOK-site

modularity of smartkabine

modularity of smartkabine

shutters

shutter detail + switches and sockets

smartkabine 3D: container interior, closed shutters

smartkabine 3D: container interior

 
smartkabine 3D: container exterior

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.