Shipping container homes have become a popular choice for homeowners seeking a unique and cost-effective living space. With the ability to build a 1,000-square-foot shipping container house for under $45,000, it's no wonder why this unconventional trend is gaining traction. Unlike traditional homes, shipping containers give homeowners the opportunity to design their living spaces to match their needs and fantasies. Here are 20 innovative ideas to transform your shipping container into your dream home.
1. Sliding Doors
Take advantage of your shipping container's natural flexibility by installing sliding doors. Not only do these modern doors add aesthetic value, but they also provide fresh air and natural lighting. Unlike swinging doors, sliding doors save space and make your container appear more spacious.
Sliding glass doors for a chic and spacious feel.
2. Pocket Doors
If sliding doors aren't your preference, opt for pocket doors. These doors retract into a hidden pocket in the wall when opened, similar to barn doors. Pocket doors are a great space-saving choice that maximizes the usability of your container.
Pocket doors for efficient and stylish space utilization.
3. Mirrors
Add the illusion of space to your shipping container home by incorporating mirrors. Mirrors have a magical way of making even the smallest of spaces appear larger. Choose mirrors of various shapes to enhance the beauty of your home.
Mirrors for creating the illusion of a larger space.
4. Walls
Utilize the often-overlooked wall space in your shipping container home. Mount floating or folding desks to save space, or consider a wall-mounted television to eliminate the need for a TV stand. Wall-mounted fans and artistic wall-mounted portraits are other creative options to enhance your container home.
- Mounting Floating and Folding Desks: Save space with a floating desk that doubles as storage or a folding desk that can be tucked away when not in use.
Floating desk for efficient space usage.
Folding desk for a space-saving alternative.
- Wall-Mounted Television: Save space by mounting your television on the wall.
Wall-mounted television for a clutter-free look.
- Wall-Mounted Fans: Create more room in your shipping container home with a wall-mounted fan.
Wall-mounted fans for efficient air circulation.
- Wall-Portraits: Show off your assortment of artistic pieces with strategically placed wall-mounted portraits.
Wall-mounted portraits to add personality and charm.
5. Wooden Floors
Create a cozy feel in your shipping container home with thoughtfully designed wooden floors. Not only are wooden floors durable and easy to maintain, but they also add a touch of natural beauty to your space. Start by mapping out a floor plan to accurately determine the amount of material needed.
Wooden floors for a warm and inviting ambiance.
6. High Ceilings
Elevate your shipping container home with high ceilings for an elegant and sophisticated look. The Redondo Beach shipping container guest house stands out for its 20-ft ceilings, giving it a spacious and grand appearance.
High ceilings for an airy and luxurious feel.
7. Wide Windows
Embrace the magnificence of wide windows in your cargo container home. Not only do they add aesthetic appeal, but they also provide ample natural light and a beautiful view of your surroundings. Enjoy a more spacious living area and reduce your carbon footprint with the infusion of natural light.
Wide windows for a well-lit and breathtaking view.
8. Spacious Living Room
If your shipping container home is your primary residence, consider creating a spacious living room complete with a patio. With a large living room, you won't miss out on the comfort of a traditional house. The goal is to create a natural and inviting living space.
9. Add Some Color!
Inject personality into your shipping container home with vibrant colors. Whether it's an accent wall or a fully themed interior, adding color brings life to your space and creates a unique atmosphere.
Colorful accents for a vibrant and energetic vibe.
10. Indoor Plants
Transform your shipping container home into a green oasis by incorporating indoor plants. From jade plants to peace lilies, there are countless options to spice up your living space with the beauty of nature.
Indoor plants for a refreshing and serene environment.
11. Spiral Staircases
If you have a multi-story shipping container structure, consider adding a spiral staircase. This stylish choice allows easy access to different levels of your container home while adding a touch of modern elegance. Incorporate colors into your staircase to create a visually stunning focal point.
Spiral staircases for a sleek and eye-catching design.
12. Wide Kitchen Space
For cooking enthusiasts, a spacious kitchen is a must. Dedicate one or more shipping containers in your design to create a modern and functional kitchen. Equip your kitchen with state-of-the-art amenities and focus on ample storage space to accommodate all your culinary needs.
A well-equipped and spacious kitchen for culinary delights.
13. Convertible Couches
Maximize space efficiency in your shipping container house with convertible couches. These versatile pieces of furniture can be transformed into beds when needed and provide comfortable seating during the day. Optimize your living area without compromising on functionality.
A convenient and space-saving convertible couch.
14. In-built Furniture
To make the most of your shipping container's space, consider building in your furniture or hiring a professional to do the work for you. Customized furniture ensures a seamless and cohesive design without any awkward gaps or wasted space.
In-built furniture for an organized and efficient layout.
15. Wood-Colored Walls
Achieve a natural look by using wood-colored interior walls. Not only do these walls showcase stunning terraces and staircases, but they also create a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout your shipping container home.
Wood-colored walls for a cozy and rustic charm.
16. Ceiling Windows
If you desire additional light and a unique design element, consider installing ceiling windows in your metal container. These windows bring in more natural light and create a striking visual effect, adding a touch of luxury to your space.
Ceiling windows for ample natural light and a modern touch.
17. Double-Sided Shelf
For small spaces, a double-sided shelf offers additional storage without taking up valuable floor area. Utilize this space-saving solution to house your books, stationery, and cherished collections.
Double-sided shelf for efficient storage and display.
18. Double-Sided Fireplace
In colder climates, invest in a double-sided fireplace to provide warmth to multiple rooms simultaneously. This innovative feature allows you to save on wood or gas, making your container home both cozy and efficient.
A double-sided fireplace for warmth and ambiance.
19. Creative Lighting
Enhance the ambiance of your container home with LED lighting. These energy-efficient lights come in a variety of sizes and colors, providing the ability to create unique lighting themes to suit your mood or occasion.
LED lights for energy-saving and customizable illumination.
20. Less is More
While designing your container home, remember that simplicity is key. Strive for an orderly and beautiful space by carefully selecting and arranging your furniture and decor. Let the unique features of your shipping container shine and create a home that is both functional and visually stunning.
Less is more - a beautifully minimalist container home.
Costs of Transforming a Container into a Living Space
The cost of transforming a shipping container into a living space varies based on various factors such as location, container size, design complexity, and resourcefulness. Professional labor alone can cost approximately $15,000.
In the U.S, transforming a metal container into a home can range from $150,000 to $250,000, excluding land costs. Due to inflation and increased global shipping container demand, container costs and supplies are gradually rising.
Shipping container construction for a unique and cost-effective living space.
One way to save costs is by using recycled shipping containers. Studio Saxe, a San Jose-based architecture firm, successfully built a shipping container home within a $40,000 budget using recycled containers.
Unleash your imagination and design your new abode with confidence. With these container interior design ideas, you can transform an ordinary shipping container into a stunning and functional dream home. Embrace the unconventional and create an extraordinary living experience.
