The Hanging House is a sustainable residence made from a shipping container

The Hanging House received this name because it is elevated above the natural ground level on the site where it was built, in Campos Novos Paulista, in the interior of São Paulo. For the architects of Casa Container Marília , responsible for the project, the main objective of the construction was that the country house would integrate into the local ecosystem, based on principles such as sustainability and recyclability . In a wooded area surrounded by native trees, the 257 m² residence was elevated to the point where its windows are above the treetops . The balconies open up the possibility of outdoor living and blend in with the branches there. In addition, Furthermore, the soil remained original , preserving the drainability and dynamics of the roots, which were not harmed due to the minimal use of concrete in the foundations. The construction was made from recycled shipping containers – a sustainable alternative to traditional masonry . In total, 80% of the materials are recycled. In addition, a green roof was implemented with rainwater reuse, thermal and acoustic insulation, further reinforcing plus its ecological ideals. In the interior area, the house's common areas, living spaces, leisure spaces and balconies were prioritized. The complete residence has two bedrooms and two bathrooms, and a large living room integrated with the kitchen and dining area . The house does not have a television or Wi-Fi – the idea is that, inside, the rule is to disconnect and enjoy what nature and family life provide.

The choice to build the building among a number of trees was a very good one, as in addition to providing shade throughout the day, it also favors cross ventilation and thermal comfort inside the residence thanks to the abundant winds in the region. The internal divisions were made with reclaimed wood . In addition to being a recycled material, it avoids the need for internal painting, as it already has its own rustic finish and is never the same. Wide openings run throughout the house to facilitate air exchange and allow nature to enter the composition. This way, the house does not need air conditioning and can remain pleasant even on the hottest days. On the first floor, the interior doors were all made with sheets reused from the cutouts of containers – a smart solution to minimize leftover material. The final waste from the work was 70% reused , basically consisting of scraps of wood and steel. .