SecondLife 01 | Carroll House by Lot-Ek, New York

Located on a compact 25×100-foot corner lot in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Carroll House is a striking example of how shipping containers can be transformed into high-quality residential architecture. Designed by LOT-EK Architects, the project adapts 15 steel containers into a contemporary single-family home that bridges the neighborhood’s industrial past with its urban present.

A Distinctive Silhouette

The house’s most defining feature comes from the diagonal cuts applied to the stacked containers. This bold gesture creates a sharp, recognizable silhouette while ensuring privacy from the street. At the same time, it reimagines the traditional concept of a backyard: instead of one single outdoor area, the design integrates multiple private decks across different levels, connected by a minimalist steel staircase.

Light, Ventilation, and Urban Connection

Large glass doors are strategically placed to maximize natural light and encourage cross ventilation, creating a comfortable and sustainable living environment. This careful balance between openness and intimacy allows the house to remain private while maintaining a strong dialogue with its surroundings.

A Model for Sustainable Urban Living
Carroll House demonstrates how industrial materials—often overlooked or wasted—can be elevated through thoughtful design. It highlights an innovative approach to sustainable urban living, proving that container architecture can combine efficiency, privacy, and a strong architectural identity.