In modern times, people are increasingly turning to sustainable and innovative ways of building their homes and commercial spaces. One solution that has been gaining traction in recent years is shipping container buildings.
These structures are made by repurposing shipping containers, which are highly durable and available in surplus due to global trade. But what makes shipping container buildings sustainable, and why are they so popular? This blog will delve into the benefits and potential of shipping container architecture.
Benefits of Shipping Container Buildings
Sustainability
The first and foremost reason why shipping container buildings are sustainable is that they are made from recycled materials. Shipping containers are constructed using high-quality steel and can last for decades, even when exposed to harsh environments and heavy wear and tear.
Affordability
Used storage containers are available in abundance in ports around the world, which makes them a cost-effective building material. They are significantly cheaper than traditional building materials like bricks and cement, which means that you can build a well-designed structure within a reasonable budget.
Versatility
Shipping containers can be adapted to meet a wide range of needs and uses. They are easy to customize and can be transformed into a variety of structures, including single-family homes, multi-unit apartments, office spaces, community centers, emergency shelters, and even swimming pools.
Durability
Since steel shipping containers are designed to transport heavy goods across long distances, they are naturally well-suited for building structures that can withstand even the harshest weather conditions. They are composed of high-quality stainless-steel materials and have been engineered to withstand the force of heavy sea waves during transport.
Innovation
Shipping container architecture is still a relatively new concept, and it continues to provide inspiration and innovation in the field of architecture. Since containers can be stacked and combined to create complex designs, architects can aim for creating unique structures that challenge traditional design principles.
Innovative Applications of Shipping Container Buildings
Shipping container buildings have a multitude of uses, ranging from residential to commercial and even industrial applications. These structures can be transformed into various spaces.
- Homes: Shipping containers make great homes or cabins, with the option to modify them to your living requirements.
- Multi-family homes: Containers can be easily joined to create apartments or individual living areas for families or small communities.
- Offices: Container offices have gained popularity for their modularity, versatility, and low cost.
- Pop-up shops: Due to their portability, containers can be easily moved and converted into a retail space or a restaurant.
- Clinics and veterinary offices: Shipping containers make it easy to create high-quality, low-cost facilities for health care providers in remote areas.
- Temporary housing: Recycled shipping containers can be adapted into emergency shelters, site offices, or field offices for educational or research organizations.
- Industrial facilities: Containers make excellent storage facilities for equipment, machinery, and materials, and can be transformed into high-tech, secure server rooms.
Exploring the World's Most Fascinating Shipping Container Buildings
The list below features shipping container structures of various sizes, from small homes to student housing complexes, situated in diverse locations worldwide. The structures are not listed in any particular order, and the list is not meant to be comprehensive.
Source: Tempo Housing
Keetwonen Shipping Container Building
“Keetwonen” is a complex of buildings made from shipping containers located in Amsterdam. It was built in 2005 and is one of the largest complexes of its kind in the world. Initially, it was constructed to provide a temporary shipping container home for student accommodation and consists of 1,034 containers. Although it was planned to be removed from its current location after 5 years, the decision has been postponed indefinitely.
Source: Freitag
Freitag Flagship Store Shipping Container Building
In Zurich, The Freitag Messenger Bag Company has constructed the world’s tallest building using shipping containers. The “Freitag Flagship Store” stands 85 ft (26 meters) high, made from 17 used shipping containers. While the first four floors are used as a store display, the remaining levels serve as storage and access to visitors who wish to reach the viewing platform at the top.
Source: Green Ecoservices
Mill Junction Silos Shipping Container Building
Citiq, a property developer in Johannesburg, turned abandoned grain silos into affordable housing for students. They also added shipping containers on top and on the sides for more living space. The resulting structure is 11 stories tall, contains 375 apartments, and has added a vibrant and unique element to the city’s skyline.
Source: Ova Studio
Hive-Inn Shipping Container Building
OVA Studio, a Hong Kong-based company, has designed an innovative hotel called the “Hive-Inn”. This hotel is designed to allow containers to be quickly docked and undocked, making it highly mobile and flexible. This design can be used for emergency housing or medical care units.
Source: GAD Architecture
Trump Tower Shipping Container Building
A “miniature master plan” made of modular shipping containers and terraces was created by GAD Architecture on top of the Trump Tower in Istanbul. The building consists of two levels with paths of varying sizes that run through it. It holds twenty-five intentionally selected commercial units and gardens that aim to replicate a contemporary Turkish bazaar.
At On-Site Storage Solutions, we understand that every customer has unique shipping requirements. To cater to these needs, we offer a diverse range of shipping container dimensions and types, including standard and specialized containers. Our knowledgeable customer service team is dedicated to providing excellent service, and we are committed to helping you find the perfect container to fit your specific needs.
If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our services, we encourage you to reach out to us at 888-405-8772. We take pride in the quality of our shipping containers and look forward to assisting you with your next project.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Using shipping containers for building construction offers several advantages. They are readily available, cost-effective, and eco-friendly options. The containers are durable, able to withstand harsh weather conditions, and can be easily transported or relocated. Additionally, their modular nature allows for flexible design and customization.
Yes, shipping containers are designed to be structurally sound and can withstand heavy loads and stacking. They are built to withstand the rigors of sea transportation, making them inherently strong. However, it’s important to consult with structural engineers or architects to ensure proper reinforcement and modifications are made for specific building requirements.
Absolutely! Shipping container buildings can be aesthetically appealing with the right design and modifications. By incorporating creative architectural features, such as adding windows, balconies, or integrating other materials like wood or glass, the containers can be transformed into visually striking structures. Many architects and designers have successfully created stunning container buildings that blend functionality with modern aesthetics.
Yes, shipping container buildings are considered sustainable due to their repurposing and recycling potential. By reusing containers that would otherwise end up in landfills, these buildings contribute to waste reduction. Additionally, with the integration of energy-efficient systems, such as solar panels and insulation, they can help reduce energy consumption and promote sustainability.
Shipping container buildings are versatile and can be used for various purposes. They can serve as residential homes, offices, retail spaces, pop-up shops, art studios, classrooms, and even hotels. With the ability to stack, combine, or modify containers, they provide a flexible solution for different spatial needs.
