Shipping containers are versatile structures. Because of their durability to hold up during shipping and handling, shipping containers can be used for a variety of things. Aside from transportation and storage, shipping containers are popular for use in shelter or accommodation.
From office spaces to gyms, recycled shipping containers can be transformed into extremely versatile spaces. Another unique, yet extremely functional use for shipping containers is a cabin.
With the right eye for design, a shipping container can easily be transformed into a cosy cabin. Whether you want a getaway for the summer or winter seasons or a year-round home, we’ve got you covered on how to transform a shipping container into a cabin.
Why use a shipping container for a cabin
Shipping container cabins are a cost-effective solution. They’re also extremely durable, meaning they can withstand the outdoor climate. Another advantage of a shipping container cabin is that they’re very versatile.
When designing a cabin using a shipping container, you essentially have a blank slate. This is the time to really let your creativity shine. With the blank slate of a shipping container, you can truly make your cabin your own.
Shipping container cabins have a ton of great uses too. You can keep your shipping container cabin for personal use, whether that be as a vacation home or a year-round home. You can also rent out your shipping container cabin, whether on Airbnb or another platform.
A shipping container cabin is a wonderful investment and renting one out as a vacation home is a great way to earn some extra cash.
The history of shipping container architecture
We can all probably guess the original use of shipping containers. Shipping containers were traditionally used as, well, shipping containers. These durable boxes were (and still are) used to transport goods from one location to another.
Their structural integrity and durability make them ideal for withstanding the shipping and handling process, as well as any harsh weather or other conditions.
In recent years, shipping containers have taken on other functional uses. They’re often used for storage, whether it be storage of items, or even vehicles. Another functional use of shipping containers is that they’re being used as buildings.
The rise of shipping container architecture in recent years has given people the chance to let their architectural creativity shine. This is seen with the transformation of shipping containers into shipping container cabins.
Let’s get into some unique shipping container cabin design ideas.
10 unique shipping container cabin design ideas
The tiny home movement has many people eager to get started designing their shipping container cabin. Here are some of the shipping container home ideas that we love.
1. Container home with multiple levels
Make the most out of your space with a multi-level container cabin. Because a tiny home doesn’t have to actually be tiny!
This is a great option for families or container cabin owners that are looking to have a lot of space. With a multi-level container cabin, the possibilities are endless. Speak to your shipping container expert to learn more about how to create a container house with multiple levels.
2. Unique floor plan
Your container cabin doesn’t have to look like a container. Skip the rectangular design and opt for a unique floor plan to give you ample space. This could be a horseshoe shaped cabin or an L-shape. From here, add walls and rooms that are unique to your design taste.
3. Industrial aesthetic
Work with what you’ve got and go with an industrial aesthetic. This is an extremely trendy design for tiny homes and container cabins.
4. Modern aesthetic
Another option is the modern aesthetic. Hang trendy chandeliers and choose decor that has a modern flair. A modern aesthetic can really bring your container cabin to life.
5. Hot tub
Unwind and relax with a hot tub in your shipping container cabin. A hot tub can give your cabin an authentic cosy feeling, especially if this is a spot where you’ll be spending your winters.
6. Container homes with a garden
Do you have a green thumb? Add a garden to the exterior of your container accommodation! A garden can brighten up the exterior of your shipping container cabin and allow you the chance to really make the home your own. Or what about a green roof to really make an eco-friendly statement?
7. Floor-to-window ceilings
Brighten up your space with floor to ceiling windows. This is an excellent way to let in some natural light and make the most out of the space that you have. And if you plan on locating your container cabin somewhere scenic, floor to ceiling windows allow you to take full advantage of the beauty of your surroundings.
8. Sliding doors
Sliding doors are super popular with tiny homes. Not only are glass doors visually appealing, but they allow easy access to the outdoors. This is a great feature to have in a cabin.
9. Farmhouse aesthetic
Maybe you’re looking for a more rustic vibe. If so, go with a farmhouse aesthetic for your container home’s design. This might mean wood panelling, neutral colours, farmhouse prints and other decor and features that offer a rustic, farmhouse cabin feel.
10. Mood lighting
Choose lighting that sets the mood you’re trying to achieve. Maybe you want a brighter space, if so you could opt for brighter, built in lighting. If you want a softer ambience, choose lamps that suit your design taste.
The process of building a shipping container cabin
Now that you’ve got some design inspiration, let’s get into how to build a shipping container cabin.
The first step to building a shipping container cabin is to find the right shipping containers for your project. Talk to a shipping container expert like Gateway to get a better idea of what size or style shipping container may work best for your architectural design plans.
The next step to building your shipping container cabin is to modify and prepare the container for construction. Before construction you should definitely have a solid plan for what you want your cabin to look like.
This way the shipping container can be properly prepared for construction. Be sure to plan things like external and internal doors, and access windows etc.
You will also need to design and plan the interior layout of your container home. Where do you want your furniture to go? What special amenities do you want in your container cabin and where? This is where the planning for all of these features will happen.
The next step is building and finishing the interior and exterior of the cabin. If you’re well-trained in construction, this is something that you can do yourself. If not, it’s best to work with an expert.
We would also recommend consulting with an expert for each of these above steps. That way, you walk away with the container cabin of your dreams.
Finding the right shipping container company
If you would like to consult with shipping container experts for designing the coolest container cabin, please don’t hesitate to reach out! The team at Gateway Shipping Container Sales are happy to help.
Gateway can provide you with any necessary information you may want on how to connect your shipping container cabin to the grid, etc. They can also help you find the right shipping container in order to create your dream shipping container cabin.
Gateway is highly ranked for excellent customer satisfaction. The high ratings and loyal clients prove that Gateway’s products and services will meet and exceed expectations. Gateway also aims to help make this an affordable project to keep you within budget every time. So whether you’re looking for shipping containers for sale or hire, contact Gateway today to get started!
