Following the devastation caused by Typhoon Soudelor, which slammed into the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) on Aug. 2, 2015, the GreenStay two-bedroom modular house made of old shipping containers at the Garapan Fishing Base has received well over a thousand visitors since opening to the public last week, according to mvariety.
Skywalker Communications, the parent company of GreenStay, introduced the modular prototype as a possibility to replace some of the 1,700 homes that were damaged by the typhoon, according to what Skywalker Managing Director Dr. Bo Hu tells MHProNews. Noting he visited many villages to assess the damage, he said, “We decided to find materials that would be affordable and at the same time strong that could withstand typhoons. We will also be seeking advice from the people who will view our model units in order for us to improve the product. For now, we are seeking more information and hopefully we get support from the community.”
At least 60 people have filled out an application for the home, leading Skywalker to plan another modular home, but with three bedrooms.
Saipan Mayor David M. Apatang said the housing project symbolizes the global effort in saving energy. “It is quick to assemble and it reduces the use of manufactured building materials. It offers a safer and stronger alternative to the homeowners. GreenStay project is a welcome option.”
Skywalker public relations manager Kiki Chen said they hope to build an entire community of modular container homes which would include shopping, a variety of recreation facilities, restaurant, cultural square, kindergarten, post office and a public park.
The CNMI is a Trust Territory of the United States. ##
(Photo credit: mvariety–officials of CNMI and Skywalker gather for the unveiling of a new modular container home.)
Article submitted by Matthew J. Silver to Daily Business News-MHProNews.