How to Transform Shipping Containers Into Tricked-Out Tiny Homes
by
Mike Meisner
When you see a shipping container like this, you probably don't think "hey that looks like a cozy place to live!" - if you're like most people these seem better fit for a couple of death-row inmates, less than ideal for a family. But the fact is many people around the world have transformed what you see below into a spacious, even luxurious home. Below you'll find the proof.
The global trade economy has produced an abundance of these containers, which are about 8' wide and anywhere from 20-40' long. A used one can be had for around $1500 or so, depending on the condition and size. With an abundance of these containers available, a number of architects, designers, and intrepid home builders have started using them as the building blocks for their homes.
Sure, a certain amount of preparation is needed to morph these containers into something resembling a home. You'll need to bust out those arc welders, laser steel cutters, and other tools to hack away at the shell to get started. You'll need to arrange trasportation for it, and get a crane to drop it where it needs to go, but after that, the fun begins.
This stylish creation was a collaboration between Sunset Magazine and Hybrid Architects. It features a large patio area and sliding doors on the front and side that open wide to allow fresh air to flow through. Inside there's a small kitchen area, a living "room" and they make great use of built-in cabinets for storage. A solar array on top provides power, and the extended canopy over the patio provides a bit of shade when it's hot.
Here's one of my favorites - a vacation home in New Zealand with a view to die for. That view stretches clear through the house thanks to the folding walls that open to add more patio space. They also fold back up to protect the house from weather and possible intruders when the owners are gone. Inside there's a spacious floor plan, with a kitchen area on one side, a living area with fireplace on the other and room to sleep.
Here you can see one end of the interior. I love the hanging chair that's suspended from the ceiling. And that view...damn.
Another favorite here, this time located in Chile. This couple hired architect Benjamin Garcia Saxe to build this beautiful home, and he did it for a measly $40k. By staggaring two containers side by side, with a bit of an offset at each end and adding some space between them they were able to maximize square footage and keep costs down. At about 1000 square-feet there's plenty of space, including two bedrooms and an expansive view from end to end when you enter the home.
A sloped ceiling extends above the home and adds to the sense of space. With the abundance of windows there's plenty of light, and plenty of places to soak in the amazing view of the surrounding countryside. Check it out.
How's that for a place to unwind? No neighbors, just you, your spouse and the dog with miles and miles of horizon on the expanse.
Finally I wanted to share this guest house with you. It's composed of a single container which has been very well appointed. Inside there's room to lounge, a space to cook, and sleep.
This little guest house would be perfect to rent on Airbnb, or to use when your mother-in-law is visiting. Personally, I'd transform it into something more akin to a man cave, but regardless of my vision, they did a great job decorating it and blending it into the surroundings.
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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Great job Mike. Is there a plan I could look at. My wife and I are 75, in excellent health. Live in McKinney Texas. The housing here isent as high as California but with so many Californians plus others coming here, the pricing is getting out of sight. We want to buy land and build on of these. I'm doing do diligence currently. Cost being the thing to get handled. My thought is to build a community of empty nesters with these. any suggestions are welcomed. Thanks, Love the project.
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