In 1941, the United States Navy needed an all-purpose, lightweight, compact and inexpensive building that could be shipped anywhere and assembled without skilled labor.  The quonset hut was developed to fit the bill, and over 150,000 were shipped during WWII alone.  With flexible, open interior space, the quonsets were used as barracks, latrines, offices, medical and dental offices, isolation wards, housing, bakeries and more.  The quonset has since become a staple in domestic applications as well, from garages to agricultural storage.  The galvanized steel structures can go up in days and last for decades.

Inspired by this history, the MicroShowcase was working to construct a modern quonset- a traditional arched frame with a refined end wall.  As quonsets present some challenges to insulate and finish to a high standard, this structure will serve as a workshop and material storage for the tiny house build on the lot.

Major manufactures of quonsets include ArchBuildings and Steelmaster.  Abod also makes small quonset-style dwellings, but they are not quickly available in the U.S., are single size, and appear relatively expensive compared to the offerings of existing quonset manufacturers.

The new quonset would have been 14×24, with a two foot inset on the facade. After considering several renderings, we preferred Option D. [Unfortunately DCRA would not allow a second foundation build structure on the alley lot, so this project was cancelled].