Shipping Containers Topped With Silos Offer Affordable Housing To South African Students

By Amanda Froelich Truth Theory

Thanks to the genius of South Africa-based Citiq Property Developers, university students in South Africa now have access to safe, affordable housing that is as secure as it is eco-friendly. Four stories high and constructed atop repurposed grain silos, Project Mill Junction can accommodate up to 400 students and boasts a number of energy-conserving features.

The complex is the second of its kind in the city and, in total, has four floors. Not only do residents have access to communal kitchens and free wifi, there are study areas, a gym and various recreation rooms in the structure. Additionally, the rooftop is covered in astro-turf, making it an inviting social area for students and guests — complete with breathtaking views of the city.

To construct Mill Junction, windows and external doors were cut out and installed with the same double glazing as the rest of the structure’s windows and doors, reports Inhabitat. Not only did this result in a neat aesthetic, it’s said to reduce energy consumption by up to 50 percent, compared to that of a conventional building. As a result, students will be able to save even more for their education and future.

Said Paul Lapham, CEO of Citiq: “By providing quality student accommodation in good locations, and building from scratch we can provide energy and water efficient infrastructure that cuts down significantly on the running costs of a student residence. This approach coupled with an educational programme on being “earthwise” has achieved savings of up to 30% on the costs of water and electricity consumed. This money is then redirected into other facilities like free wifi, communal facilities and games rooms that provide a university campus feel to the residence.”

This is the developers’ first experience building with repurposed materials. According to Lapham, the response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, which is inspiration enough for the company to continue meeting the needs of the country’s young population. Said Citiq’s CEO, “Reusing these structures often provides for an artistic and eclectic look and feel, which appeals to people wanting to establish their own individuality. This alternative development approach, as compared to traditional building methods involving bricks and mortar, has guided our more recent property acquisitions and designs.”

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