Shipping containers are being used more as a way of creating low-cost, eco-friendly, and innovative housing solutions in urban areas. With the ability to stack multiple containers on top of each other and customize the interior layout, they provide a unique solution that makes them the perfect choice for modern living.
Not only are these homes easily customizable and cheaper to construct than traditional homes, but they also come with many other advantages that make them an ideal choice for modern living.
This article looks at transforming shipping containers into apartments and explores how they’re quickly becoming the new norm in urban living.
What is a Shipping Container Apartment?
A shipping container apartment is a type of living space constructed out of upcycled shipping containers which can vary in look depending on how it is constructed. They are often used as an affordable, eco-friendly way to build living space or provide emergency housing. These homes offer a unique living experience with containers that can be combined to create larger spaces, multiple levels and customized designs.
The containers offer many of the same amenities found in regular apartments with basic plumbing, electrical connections, insulation and other features to create a comfortable home.
Pros & Cons of Living in a Shipping Container Apartment
If living in a shipping container apartment is something you’re considering, here is a quick overview of the pros and cons. From cost-effectiveness to customizable layouts, explore the benefits and drawbacks of this modern housing option.
Pros of living in an apartment made from a shipping container:
- Faster to Build – Building these homes takes less time than building a normal house or apartment.
- Cost-Effective – Pre-fabricated parts can be made away from the building site. This saves time and money because there are fewer people needed to do the work. This means affordable housing for people!
- Durability – Containers are resilient, providing superior protection and security for your items.
- Semi-Permanent – Moving doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. You can effortlessly transport your containers with the help of trucks or boats.
- Remarkable Architecture – Container apartments are built with giant boxes, but they don’t have to look like a box. You can design the floor plan in any way that you want. Shipping containers can be stacked and combined in many different ways. You can cover up the metal skin or show it off in some regions of the apartment.
- Eco-Friendly – Nowadays, many people care about the environment. They want to help reduce how much damage is done to our planet. This affects what products we buy and how we travel. It also affects the houses that people choose.
Cons on using a container out in building an apartment:
Living in a shipping container apartment can be a great lifestyle choice, but it’s not without its drawbacks. Here are some of the downsides that should be considered when making the decision whether or not to live in one:
- Ceiling Height: Normally, shipping containers are no higher than 8 ft 10 inches, and this height can be even lower if flooring or insulation is added. If you’re looking for a tall home with multiple stories, your best bet would be to stack containers together.
- Interior Width: Shipping containers are typically about 7 ft 8 inches wide, but with insulation and extra walls this width will be closer to 7 ft. This limited space can make living in a container difficult if you have more people or want more rooms. However, it’s possible to enlarge the size of the container by cutting out walls between two or more containers and combining them together.
- Insulation Location: Due to the strong corrugated steel walls of a container, it can be hard to build an apartment because there are no wall studs for insulation placement. Most builders add extra studs and insulate between them; however, furring strips need to be used even if the insulation is located outside the walls due to the cladding material and insulation thickness needed.
Cost of Shipping Container Apartment
When comparing the cost of building traditional apartments to shipping container apartments, it is important to consider both short-term and long-term costs. Traditional apartments tend to require more materials and labor, and thus are more expensive in terms of initial construction. Shipping container apartments are much simpler to construct due to their modular nature, meaning that they can be assembled quickly with minimal materials. Additionally, the long-term maintenance costs of shipping container apartments tend to be lower than those of traditional apartment buildings, making them a viable alternative option for those looking for economical housing options while still maintaining quality standards.
Conclusion
Living in a shipping container apartment can be an exciting way to live that offers eco-friendly and cost-effective options. It is important to consider the practical drawbacks such as the limited ceiling height and interior width before making a decision. With careful design, however, it is possible to create a great home from a shipping container and enjoy its unique experience.
On-Site Storage Solutions
On-Site Storage Solutions can help you make your vision of a home come true – whether it’s an apartment or a tiny house, we have the perfect storage container for you. Our knowledgeable team is here to provide all the assistance necessary so that your dream becomes a reality. Reach us at (888) 405-8772 to get your dream started!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Stacking shipping containers involves lifting and placing one container on top of another, ensuring they are properly aligned. It is important to ensure the corner casting of each container is lined up so that the load is evenly distributed. The weight should be balanced across all four corners.
The maximum height a shipping container can be stacked is eight containers. This is based on safety standards and regulations set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).
Yes, it is possible to live in a storage container, and many people have transformed shipping containers into comfortable and functional living spaces. These converted containers are often referred to as “container homes” or “container houses.”
Shipping container apartments are residential units built using repurposed shipping containers. These containers are transformed into livable spaces, offering an innovative and sustainable approach to urban living.
Shipping container apartments can be more affordable compared to traditional housing options. The use of repurposed containers helps reduce construction costs, making them an attractive option for those seeking more budget-friendly housing solutions.
Yes, shipping container apartments can be highly customizable. Containers can be modified and interconnected to create unique layouts and designs, allowing for personalized living spaces that cater to individual preferences and needs.
Yes, shipping container apartments promote sustainability. By repurposing shipping containers, they contribute to recycling and waste reduction efforts. Additionally, their compact design encourages efficient use of space and resources.
Shipping container apartments can be found in various urban areas around the world. They are often part of innovative housing projects or developments focused on sustainable and affordable living. Researching local real estate listings and contacting housing developers can help you discover available options in your area.
