The Lida Group based in Shandong, China has pioneered the use of recycled shipping containers as the base materials for low cost, multi-functional worker dormitories.

Lida innovates container architecture by developing efficient designs, employing mass production techniques and focusing on cost effectiveness. By standardizing the construction process, Lida aims to make container worker dormitories an affordable housing option.

Lida’s founder and CEO, Mr. Mu, started the company in 1993 after seeing the potential of used shipping containers as a base for cost effective modular constructions. Previously, Mr. Mu had worked as an architect designing high-end homes. However, he realized many people struggled with expensive housing options.

Lida got started by providing simple single container cabins as temporary shelters. The cost savings and convenience of the container buildings proved popular and Lida expanded into providing multi-unit labor camp housing solutions for transient workforces.

Lida develops container dormitory solutions customized for each project while standardizing design elements that can be mass produced. This allows Lida to keep costs as low as 30-40% below traditional constructions while completing projects rapidly through factory prefabrication.

flatpack container house

Some key aspects of Lida’s low cost, multi-functional container worker dormitories include:

• Utilizing standard shipping containers that cost as little as $2000 each, providing the basic frames and walls.

• Designing compact floorplans that maximize space within each container. Lida’s engineers precisely plan the layout, placement of doors and windows, and connection of multiple containers.

• Implementing simple, functional designs without unnecessary additions. Elements like beds, insulation, wall partitions and other fittings are added as needed.

• Leveraging mass production techniques by prefabricating similar components in a factory-like setting. Interior fixtures, doors, windows and more are produced in bulk for use across dormitories.

• Working with contractors specialized in container retrofitting and construction. Contractors complete on-site work at lower rates due to the repetitive nature of the buildings.

Since founding, Lida has completed over 1000 container-based projects across China and in other countries, including many worker housing solutions:

• Large dormitories built in under 3 months for infrastructure projects at significantly lower costs.

• Multi-building dormitory campuses assembled on-site to house thousands of workers with amenities like laundries, lounges and recreation areas.

• Modular mobile dormitories constructed rapidly to provide accommodation for disaster relief workers or seasonal laborers.

• Standardized “plug and play” dormitory villages built in factories and transported for quick assembly on-site.

Going forward, Lida aims to scale its low cost, multi-functional container worker dormitory solutions through technological advancements, expanded manufacturing and strategic partnerships. Lida’s vision is for container buildings to become mainstream for providing quality affordable housing optimized for transient workforces.
With continued innovation, Lida Group hopes to establish multi-functional container dormitories as a cost-effective yet versatile housing alternative for workers.

In summary, by leveraging the benefits of container architecture and mass production, Lida Group strives to redefine worker housing construction. Through standardized, replicated components produced in factories, Lida aims to deliver affordable yet adaptable solutions that can meet the diverse needs of different workforces through simple yet versatile multi-functional container designs.

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