This 107-Square-Foot Cabin Is a Model Example of Sustainable Craftsmanship

In recent years, designers have turned their attention toward sustainable practices more than ever before. Architecture is not only created to be striking and functional, but it also can embody a eco-friendly ethos that gives back to its surrounding environment. This tiny house called “Red Container” is a prime example of that. 

Architect Tono Mirai is the creator behind “Red Container,” named after the color of the locally sourced larch wood used to built the tiny cabin. Coming in at 107 square feet, this unit was created to promote the local materials found in the Saku region of Nagano, Japan.

Mirai told designboom that larch wood can serve as a strong building resource, but its reputation to warp has prevented it from being used in construction more often. But thanks to new wood drying technology, larch wood is now a more reliable material to use—and Mirai’s tiny cabin is proof of that. 

The “Red Container” is meant to serve various purposes, from a residential unit to something more commercial. While it may be tiny, it has a sturdy build, with a roof that blends in with its natural environment. The interior can be transformed into whatever is desirable, and lighting and air conditioning can be included in the custom order. 

Glass makes up an entire wall of the building that, depending on where it’s positioned, can let in a plentiful amount of light. Speaking of which, this tiny house can easily be transported to different locations, thanks to the iron pipe under the steel base that can be easily pulled by a truck. 

Mirai did an efficient job at highlighting the natural wood used to create this project. It certainly got our attention!