Shipping containers are designed to stack corner to corner, like you see on ships and in ports. If you want to stack containers in an unconventional way, or cut out big windows and doorways, it's important to note additional budget and work will be required. “If you're building a one-story container home, it's really a breeze. But the second you go up a floor, just know there's going be a lot of added costs and added structural reinforcement needed, especially if you're stacking in the non-conventional way,” explains Washington State-based builder Devon Loerop.
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“When you turn containers 90 degrees and they're not stacked on the corners, and that's when you have to look at some serious structural reinforcement. It makes for a really cool design, but it's going be a bit of a headache. So you really want to do your due diligence and dive into understanding structural steel, what it's going to take to make your home 100% rock solid, and how that is going to affect the inside of your design.”
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Metal is inherently a bad insulator so condensation is quick to form when it’s hot inside and cold outside or vice versa. For this reason, closed cell foam should be used for shipping container homes because it acts as vapor barrier as well as an insulator. If traditional insulation is used moisture in the form of condensation can cause corrosion, mold, and mildew to build up over time, which can be hazardous and dangerous.
Now, closed cell foam can be expensive, especially if you have to reach a specified thickness for R value to meet inspection (keep in mind building codes and requirements will vary by location and climate). “I paid something like $32,000 to do a closed cell spray foam,” shares Loerop of his Pacific Bin build.
But in hindsight, this one clever technique could have saved him thousands: "A way to save a ton of money is to just apply a very thin layer of closed cell spray foam on the inside of your walls—like three quarter to an inch thick. That will add a little insulation but the main thing is it's creating a vapor barrier for you to then roll in typical batt installation. That alone will probably save you like $15,000 on insulating your home.”
Imagine living in a beautiful, modern home with all the luxurious features you could ever want, but at a fraction of the cost of a traditional house. That’s exactly what luxurious container homes offer.
With the growing trend of transforming shipping containers into stunning and eco-friendly living spaces, these unique dwellings have captured the hearts of many homeowners around the world. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about a shipping container home, from planning and design to construction and customization.
Before diving into the world of luxury shipping container homes, it’s essential to determine your specific needs and budget. Consider factors such as family members, desired location, and preferred architectural style. This will help you narrow down your options and ensure your dream container home meets your expectations.
The foundation of all luxury shipping container homes begins with selecting the right type of container. With various sizes and styles available, it’s essential to understand the differences between each option to make an informed decision.
Size and style are the two basic parameters on which you can classify the containers and choose the ones according to your preferences.
Dimensions: 10′ L x 8′ W x 8’6″ H (standard) or 9’6″ H (high cube)
Ideal for: A tiny home, single room, or small backyard studios
Pros: Compact and easy to transport; perfect for a smaller plot.
Cons: Small storage unit
Dimensions: 20′ L x 8′ W x 8’6″ H (standard) or 9’6″ H (high cube)
Ideal for: Small to medium-sized homes, guesthouses, or office spaces
Pros: Provides double the moving space of a 10-foot container; still relatively easy to transport
Cons: May require additional containers for more spacious living areas
Dimensions: 40′ L x 8′ W x 8’6″ H (standard) or 9’6″ H (high cube)
Ideal for: Larger homes, multi-room living spaces, or commercial applications
Pros: Offers ample space and can be combined with other containers for expansive designs
Cons: More challenging to transport and maneuver; requires more land for installation
Height: 8’6″ for both 20-foot and 40-foot containers
Features: Closed steel structure with corrugated walls, marine plywood flooring, and double doors on one end
Best for: Homeowners seeking a traditional container home design with standard ceiling heights
Tips: These can be easily modified with windows, doors, and insulation to create a cozy container home
Height: 9’6″ for both 20-foot and 40-foot containers
Features: Similar structure to standard containers, but with an increased interior height
Best for: Homeowners looking for extra headroom, loft spaces, or taller ceilings
Tips: High cube containers can enhance the sense of space and openness in luxury shipping container homes
Height: 8’6″ or 9’6″ (high cube)
Features: Removable roof or tarpaulin cover instead of a solid steel roof
Best for: Unique designs that incorporate rooftop gardens, skylights, or convertible living spaces
Tips: Open-top containers may require additional reinforcement and weatherproofing, but they offer more flexibility in terms of design and natural light
Pristine Condition: New shipping containers have never been used for cargo transportation, so they’re in excellent condition with no dents, rust, or structural damage. This means they’ll require less repair work and modifications before being transformed into a luxurious container home.
Longer Lifespan: Since new containers haven’t been exposed to the wear and tear of shipping, they generally have a longer lifespan, are more likely to withstand harsh weather conditions, and are ideal for luxury container homes.
Clean Interior: These shipping container homes are free of any cargo residue or chemical contamination, ensuring a clean and safe environment for your own container home.
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Customization Options: Purchasing a new shipping container often allows you to choose specific features, such as door and window placements or specialized paint coatings, to better suit your luxury container homes.
Higher Cost: New shipping container homes come with a higher price tag compared to recycled containers, potentially increasing the overall budget for your container home project.
Environmental Impact: The production of new container homes consumes resources and energy, contributing to a larger carbon footprint than using recycled containers.
Cost-Effective: Recycled container homes are more affordable than new containers, allowing you to allocate more of your budget toward luxurious finishes, fixtures, and furnishings.
Eco-Friendly: Using a recycled container home promotes sustainability by repurposing materials that would otherwise end up in a landfill. This aligns with the growing trend of eco-friendly and environmentally conscious living.
Availability: There’s an abundance of used shipping containers worldwide, making it relatively easy to source them for your container homes.
Character and Charm: Recycled containers often come with unique markings and wear that can add character and a story to your luxurious container home.
Potential Damage: Used containers may have dents, rust, or structural damage that need to be repaired or treated before construction. This can add to the overall cost and time required to complete your project.
Unknown History: Recycled containers may have been exposed to various cargo types and chemicals, requiring thorough cleaning and possibly replacement of the flooring before converting them into living spaces.
Limited Customization: Unlike new containers, recycled containers may have limited customization options in terms of size, color, or door and window placements.
Before you begin scouting potential locations, research the zoning and building regulations in your desired area. Not all municipalities allow container homes, and some may have specific requirements for their construction. Familiarize yourself with these regulations to avoid potential legal issues and delays in getting your container home.
A great location should provide easy access to essential amenities, such as shops, schools, hospitals, and transportation options. When selecting a location, consider the proximity of these facilities and the available infrastructure. A well-connected location will not only enhance your quality of life but also improve the resale value of your container home in the future.
A site’s topography and orientation can significantly impact your luxury shipping container home’s design, energy efficiency, and overall comfort. Sloping or uneven terrain may require additional foundation work, while a site’s orientation will determine how much natural light and heat your container home receives throughout the day.
One of the joys of a luxury shipping container house is the ability to customize it to your liking. Select a location that offers privacy, as well as absolutely stunning views to make the most of your container home. When considering potential sites, think about the positioning of your home to maximize both privacy and the beauty of your surroundings.
Building luxury shipping container homes is an eco-friendly choice, and selecting the right location can further reduce your environmental impact. Choose a location that allows you to incorporate sustainable features, such as solar panels, rainwater collection systems, or green roofs. Additionally, consider the potential impact of your container home on the local ecosystem and choose a site that minimizes disruption to the environment.
Shipping container homes can be designed in various styles, from modern container homes to eco-friendly designs. Consider your taste and desired living experience when selecting a style. Be creative with the layout, combining multiple containers to form a spacious and unique container home.
One of the key advantages of shipping container homes is their efficient use of living space. To make the most of your living area, consider the following tips:
Transforming shipping container homes into luxurious facilities requires creativity, thoughtful design, and attention to detail.
To create a spacious and elegant master bedroom, consider using a larger container, such as a 40-foot or high cube container, which offers more headroom. Plan the layout carefully, ensuring there’s ample space for a bed, storage, and a seating area.
Incorporate large windows or sliding glass doors to bring in natural light and take advantage of any scenic views. Additionally, consider installing skylights for extra light and a touch of architectural interest in your container home.
Elevate the room’s ambiance with high-quality finishes, such as hardwood flooring, custom cabinetry, and stylish light fixtures. Layer your living space with plush textiles like rugs, curtains, and bedding to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Plan your en-suite bathroom layout carefully, ensuring adequate living space for a walk-in shower, double vanity, and a separate toilet area if desired. Consider incorporating a freestanding bathtub for a touch of luxury and relaxation.
Select premium materials like natural stone, glass, and polished metal to create a sleek and luxurious aesthetic. Opt for high-quality fixtures, such as rain showerheads, heated towel racks, and modern faucets.
Enhance the Ambiance of the spa retreat with Lighting and Accessories. Incorporate layered lighting, such as wall sconces, recessed and pendant lights, to create an inviting atmosphere. Add accessories like candles, artwork, and plants to complete the stunning spa-like experience.
Design your container home to seamlessly connect outdoor and indoor spaces by incorporating large sliding or bi-fold doors. This creates an extended living area perfect for entertaining or relaxing with nature.
Take advantage of your container home’s flat roof by creating a rooftop deck, complete with comfortable seating, a dining area, and even a small outdoor kitchen. Add greenery, like potted plants or a living wall, to create an oasis in the sky.
A solid foundation is critical for the stability and durability of your luxury shipping container homes. Whether you opt for a ground-floor or a second-floor design, ensure your foundation meets local building regulations.
Select a suitable foundation for your container home based on factors like soil type, local building codes, and budget. Common options include concrete piers, slab-on-grade, or a full basement.
Invest in high-quality insulation to ensure your shipping container home remains comfortable and energy-efficient. Consider options like spray foam, rigid foam panels, or insulated panels, depending on your budget and climate.
Opt for energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, such as a ductless mini-split system, to maintain a comfortable temperature in your luxury shipping container homes. Incorporate passive solar design principles, like shading devices and cross-ventilation, to further enhance comfort and efficiency.
Large windows and sliding doors not only provide natural light and ventilation but also create a connection between indoor and outdoor living spaces. Choose durable materials like double-glazed glass to ensure energy efficiency and longevity.
Choose furniture and décor that complement the vibe and aesthetics of your shipping container home. Opt for pieces that are both functional and visually appealing for your luxury home.
Incorporate elegant materials, textures, and finishes to elevate the atmosphere of your shipping container home. Consider adding statement pieces like chandeliers or custom artwork to create a focal point in each room. Don’t forget to use ambient lighting to set the mood and highlight your home’s best features.
The cost of luxury shipping container homes varies depending on factors such as the number of containers used, the quality of materials, and the level of customization. Generally, a shipping container home can cost anywhere from $10,000 to over $300,000.
Yes, luxury shipping container homes can be eco-friendly, especially when constructed with recycled containers. They often have a smaller environmental footprint compared to traditional homes and can be designed with sustainable features like solar panels and green roofs.
Building regulations for luxury shipping container homes vary by location. It’s essential to research local regulations and obtain the necessary permits before constructing your container home.
Yes, one of the benefits of luxury shipping container homes is their modularity. You can add more containers or extensions to your existing structure to create more than two bedrooms and additional living spaces.
Luxury shipping container homes offer a unique and innovative alternative to traditional housing. Careful planning, design, and customization, can assist you in getting a stunning and eco-friendly space that reflects your personality and requirements.
By embracing the container house lifestyle, you’re not only investing in a beautiful home but also making a positive impact on the environment. So, are you ready to embark on the exciting journey of creating your container home?
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