Are you searching for an innovative and unique way to cater events, run a small business, or simply revamp your home kitchen? As the demand for innovative and eco-friendly options continues to rise, shipping container kitchens have emerged as a popular choice for those in the culinary industry.
But, like with any investment, it’s essential to understand both the advantages and disadvantages before taking the leap.
That’s where this article comes in. We aim to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the pros and cons of incorporating a shipping container kitchen into your operations, helping you make an informed decision.
So, buckle up, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s dive into the exciting world of container kitchens!
Why use a shipping container for a kitchen?
In the ever-changing culinary world, shipping containers have emerged as a popular solution for establishments of all sizes. Restaurant chains, small cafes, food truck owners and more have discovered the freedom and other benefits of using recycled cargo containers as the building blocks for their kitchens.
And, it’s not just restaurant owners; shipping container kitchens have been deployed for community organisations and for residential purposes as well.
Shipping containers make good construction solutions because they are cost-effective, sustainable, and durable. They are also extremely versatile; containers can be purchased with certain modifications in place, or they can be transformed to fit virtually any design.
And, because containers can be transported, they afford you the freedom to relocate your container structure as you see fit.
Shipping containers can be transformed into all kinds of functional structures, including kitchens. A shipping container kitchen can serve as a practical solution for many different types of businesses, as well as home cooks who need a little extra kitchen space for a special occasion or during home renovations.
We will break down some of the key advantages and disadvantages of investing in a shipping container kitchen and help you decide if this could be the right choice for you.
The pros of investing in a shipping container kitchen
There are many advantages of shipping container kitchens:
Cost-effectiveness: Compared to traditional brick-and-mortar kitchens, shipping container kitchens are often a much more affordable option. They are also much quicker to construct, saving your business down time and labour costs.
Portability: Of course, shipping containers can be moved from place to place. Many pop-up restaurants and food truck establishments enjoy the ability to move their business to different locations and reach new customers. Portability makes shipping container kitchens a practical choice for catering companies who need to prepare and serve food for special occasions and events where an on-site kitchen facility might not be available.
Durability: Shipping container kitchens are built from cargo containers that once withstood overseas travel aboard cargo ships. These ultra-durable steel containers are designed to hold up against extreme weather conditions and be secure against pests and thieves. A new container can last up to 25 years without need for major maintenance or repair, making these containers a good investment.
Customisation: One of the best things about shipping container kitchens is the ability to customise the interior and exterior of the container to your exact specifications. No two businesses are alike, especially in the restaurant industry.
A pizza shop will have very different needs from a cafe, or a burger joint, or a seafood restaurant. Caterers might need extra storage space, while a take-out restaurant might want a to-go window where customers can place and pick up orders. You can even install fold-down doors that act as an awning and flooring to create covered outdoor seating.
Starting with the basics, your container can be outfitted with electricity, lighting, running water, heating, cooling, ventilation, and insulation. You can have windows and doors installed according to your access and design needs.
Then, you can customise the space depending on what kinds of cooking you’ll be doing, how many people will use the space, and what kinds of appliances you’ll need. Finally, you can personalise your kitchen with your own logo, branding, and decor, inside and out.
The cons of investing in a shipping container kitchen
Cost: While shipping container kitchens can be less expensive than buying or building a brick-and-mortar space, there are upfront costs associated with purchasing a shipping container and installing a kitchen.
You will have to purchase the container itself, which will vary depending on the container’s size and condition. Then, you will need to work with a contractor to build it out according to your needs. T
his work can be done faster than with traditional builds, as long as you engage a contractor with experience building container projects. Gateway can modify your shipping containers for a wide variety of purposes.
Location: You will need to determine the location of your shipping container kitchen. This means you will need adequate space on your property. You must also ensure that your property is suited to the container kitchen.
Shipping containers must be placed on a level surface that is not prone to flooding, so you may need to do some site prep to create a level foundation suitable for your container kitchen.
Regulations: Like with any other buildings or additions, you will need to consider the requirements for permits, inspections, and other regulatory issues. Before beginning work on a shipping container kitchen for your home or business, be sure to check for any necessary permits from your local council.
Different towns and cities have different regulations concerning shipping containers. Some require that a shipping container building comply with the same regulations as a conventional home. Others require a permit to place a shipping container on your property no matter its purpose. These permits may come at a cost.
Size: Consider also the limitations on the size and layout of the kitchen due to the size of the container. Shipping containers come in a variety of standard sizes, the most common ones being 10-feet, 20-feet, and 40-feet long.
Standard containers are about 8 feet wide, so keep this in mind when designing your kitchen layout. Of course, multiple containers can be welded together to create a bigger space, but this will add to your costs and make your container kitchen more difficult or impractical to relocate.
Case studies
As shipping containers have exploded in popularity, shipping container kitchens have cropped up all over the world. From small businesses to global chains and everything in between, it seems chefs of all kinds have recognised the potential benefits of a container kitchen.
The Tiller Coffee
The Tiller Coffee in Alderley, Queensland is a sleek and modern container coffee shop that stands out with its cool black exterior. The containers have been repurposed into a cosy and charming space, complete with quirky decor.
Humanity Coffe Co.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, Humanity Coffee Co. stands out as a a bright and vibrant container coffee shop against the grey concrete surroundings. There is a colourful outdoor seating area, inviting passersby to take a break from their busy day and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee.
First Things First Coffee
Tucked away on a quaint street corner, First Things First Coffee is a charming container coffee shop that catches the eye with its striking red brick exterior. The industrial feel of the repurposed container is softened by warm lighting and cozy indoor seating. The space is tastefully decorated with minimalist furnishings and chic accents, creating a trendy yet inviting atmosphere.
Whitehart Bar
Whitehart Bar is a chic container bar that stands out with its striking monotone black and grey exterior. The industrial aesthetic is softened by several potted plants and pops of colour from the vibrant umbrellas shading the outdoor seating areas on both levels.
The open roof creates a spacious and airy atmosphere, perfect for lively raves or parties under the stars. As the night falls, the colourful umbrellas light up, infusing the space with festive energy that invites customers to dance and celebrate. With a selection of delicious cocktails, it is the perfect spot to indulge in some high-energy fun on.
Conclusion
Shipping container kitchens can be used for so many different purposes, from temporary cooking spaces to mobile caterers to innovative businesses.
Thousands of shipping containers sit idle after only one cargo trip because it is more cost-effective to resell or recycle them than it is to ship them back to their place of origin.
That means that these practically-new containers are ready to serve a new purpose, saving you money on construction materials and reducing the environmental impact of conventional construction.
Is a shipping container kitchen the right choice for you? Let the experts at Gateway help you decide. Gateway has more than twenty years of experience in the container industry, and have helped clients in residential and commercial capacities make their visions come to life.
Gateway can work with you to understand your needs, help you select the right container and modifications, or develop a custom solution that fits your plans and your budget. Get started today with a free consultation and quote.
