The Can Cube is designed by integrating a host of ecological and renewable systems to make it a highly efficient and sustainable structure. The entrance level and below-ground level are designed to function as office space, while the second and third levels are designed as recreational and private living quarters.
A partially dug in garden is featured at the entrance leading to the basement level. The garden is linked to the first floor level via a bridge. Can Cube features a unique façade system, which is made of aluminum carbonated drink cans enclosed in an aluminum frame. Reusing the cans in their current form, without the need for recycling or further processes helps in saving the energy wasted during recycling processes. The aluminium frame enclosure keeps the structure light and easily adjustable by its occupants.
The façade is incorporated with window-sash type sections to provide the user with full control of sunlight/daylight in all seasons. The building is installed with heating and cooling devices, rainwater filtration and solar energy systems, which also aid in energy efficiency and minimised wastage of energy.
Archi Union Architects INC is a multidisciplinary architecture and planning studio in Shanghai headed by Professor Philip F. Yuan.
