Original Design: Atelierworkshop Architects
Project Type: One-container portable home
Built Area: Approx. 20 m² | Sleeps 2 Adults + 2 Children
Architectural Overview
The Port-A-Bach is a compact, folding-wall micro-house built from a single shipping container.
Originally designed in New Zealand by Atelierworkshop, it was conceived as a sustainable holiday home that could be transported, unfolded, and lived in anywhere.
Its design philosophy embraces simplicity, mobility, and off-grid independence - qualities now re-imagined by Hybrid Cargotecture™ for tropical climates and remote locations across Sri Lanka and the world.
Design Concept
This clever unit unfolds into a complete living space that connects seamlessly with nature and folds back into a secure steel box for transport or storage.
Inside, every inch is purpose-built:
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Timber-lined interiors with hidden and open storage
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Stainless-steel kitchenette and fittings
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Bathroom with open shower, sink, and composting toilet
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Convertible sleeping spaces with double bed and bunks
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Canvas shade and screen systems that extend the deck
It combines high-end detailing, energy efficiency, and freedom of mobility the essence of modern modular living.
Adapted for Sri Lanka
Hybrid Cargotecture develops this global design into a fully tropical-ready model:
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Weather-sealed steel structure with marine-grade paint
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Thermal insulation and passive cross-ventilation
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Solar-PV and battery integration for off-grid power
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Fold-out timber deck with UV-resistant canopy
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Water filtration, grey-water reuse, and optional rain-harvest system
Portable, secure, and beautifully detailed, it’s ideal for resorts, estates, or private getaways.
Living Experience
The Port-A-Bach offers the warmth of natural materials and the freedom of mobility.
When opened, it becomes an airy indoor-outdoor retreat; when folded, it transforms into a compact, road-ready unit.
It’s a complete, self-contained home that can be delivered, installed, and lived in within hours.
Why Choose Hybrid Cargotecture™
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Built locally in Sri Lanka to international standards
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Precision steel fabrication and premium finishes
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Quick delivery and simple installation anywhere
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Eco-friendly, durable, and fully customizable
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Ideal for remote lands, beachfronts, or tourism projects
Technical Snapshot
| Feature |
Specification |
| Structure |
One 20 ft shipping container |
| Area |
Approx. 20 m² |
| Sleeps |
2 Adults + 2 Children |
| Power |
Solar PV / Hybrid Grid |
| Insulation |
Thermal insulation + reflective barrier |
| Bathroom |
Composting / standard option |
| Deck |
Fold-out timber platform |
| Build Time |
4 – 6 weeks |
Perfect For
Build Your Own Portable Home
Hybrid Cargotecture™ brings the world’s best container architecture to Sri Lanka.
We custom-build, transport and install anywhere turning a single shipping container into a luxury eco-retreat or movable hotel suite.
