Modular_Expandable_Office_Unit_Hero@2x

ME:OU MODULAR EXPANDABLE OFFICE UNIT

Design Challenge

How did the architects utilize intermodal shipping containers to rethink the possibilities of modular office design?

Design Solution

AB design studio turns waste into sustainable design with ME:OU, otherwise known as the Modular Expandable Office Unit. The architects rethink what is otherwise taken for granted as refuse, and explore what is possible beyond the current paradigms of construction, to convert it into sustainable design. What began as an academic exercise in experimental architecture led to the embrace of social responsibility and building with future generations in mind. The architects create meaningful design by working within certain limitations to answer the question, “How do we live within our current set of resources?” The result is ME:OU, a highly flexible, expandable, and modular answer to the need for permanent or temporary office space. Made from intermodal shipping containers, ME:OU can be designed and implemented rapidly and outfitted to suit a wide array of commercial/office uses. Multiple permutations and configurations can accommodate between 2-10 occupants, and from 160 up to 640 square feet of usable interior space. These designed and appointed office modules can also be grouped together to create a vibrant and functional campus. ME:OU is winner of the 2015 AIA | Santa Barbara Design Awards.

1_7

Project Data

LOT SIZE
Varies
PROJECT SIZE
480 sf
CONSTRUCTION COST
$60,000
LOCATION
Santa Barbara, CA
PRINCIPAL
Josh Blumer, AIA
PROJECT MANAGER
Drew Scherer
DESIGN TEAM
Josh Blumer, AIA | Joel Herrera | Glen Deisler | Paul Rupp | Jenda Michl | Jojit Diaz | Drew Scherer
GENERAL CONTRACTOR
COR 10 Studios
meou-door_0
3_13
4_13
5_12
6_12
7_12
8_11
9_10
10_9
11_9
12_9
13_7
14_7
15_5
16_5
17_3
18_4
19_5
21_3
20_4
22_3
23_1
24_1
25_1
26_1