Shipping Container Design

Robust steel shipping containers were invented and developed for transportation of cargo in the mid-1950s. Little more than three decades later, the first U.S. patent for converting shipping containers into habitable buildings was filed successfully.

Today recycled shipping containers are used in many parts of the world, including the Netherlands, U.S., United Kingdom, France, Israel, and South Africa. Furthermore, they are used for many different purposes including mobile site offices, housing, getaway retreats, shops, restaurants, coffee shops, pubs, conference and training rooms, booths for parking attendants, and clinics, schools, and even for standalone ablution facilities and innovative gym units. They are also commonly used for storage of just about any kind, including household goods; and many companies hire containers that are stored in fairly large numbers within secure locations.

Even though they are manufactured in only three standard sizes, shipping containers are incredibly versatile and they are made to strict international standards. Undeniably the strongest boxes in the world, multiple units can be combined in a myriad of ways. They can be used alongside one another or stacked to create multi-story structures. They can be reconfigured into larger spaces by removing one side of two containers to double their size. Or they can be used around an area that has a common roof structure that covers the containers as well as a central or adjacent space.

But steel shipping containers are really just an innovative building material. Other than shipping cargo and storing all kinds of stuff, from raw materials to treasured possessions, they need to be substantially modified if they are going to be used for human habitation of any kind. Doors and windows need to be fitted, and plumbing and electrics installed. All the elements of heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) need to be considered and incorporated into a well thought out design. Depending on the function converted shipping containers will fulfill, a comprehensive fire protection system may also need to be incorporated into the design.

While container conversion, originally proposed as a highly economic form of construction, is generally cost-effective and a lot quicker and less labor-intensive to complete than traditional brick-and-mortar or timber structures, human-centric structures demand the same technologies as traditional construction to make them suitable for purpose.

Used for emergency shelter or as a traditional prefabricated building, perhaps as a structure assembled on-site to form a fundamental site office or even basic accommodation, a shipping container will be fitted with doors and windows and will incorporate some sort of insulation. But the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems will normally be very basic and limited to running water and essential electrification. When container conversions are designed for housing and other more permanent functions, there is a vital need for input by mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineering professionals because the requirements are considerably more sophisticated.

By working closely with engineers who have the experience and capabilities to ensure that MEP systems meet local building codes and regulations, architects can create stylish, eco-friendly homes, offices, and other buildings that are both sustainable and aesthetically appealing.

We have already mentioned that shipping container design is considerably quicker and in many ways more cost-effective than conventional buildings. It is particularly popular for designs that cater to entry-level and student accommodation. Container offices are often supplied as a “plug and play” solution where they are literally delivered to the site ready to be connected to water and electricity with no other major work required. Nevertheless, they can be customized to meet client specifications.

Additionally, they are portable and can be transported virtually anywhere in the world, including remote locations. Other advantages include the fact that most container structures don’t require extensive earthworks or foundations, although a foundation system is required. Designs are also easily adapted for sloping sites which tend to increase costs for traditional building methods. Because they are modular, individual containers can be used on their own or multiple units can be configured to make complex designs or to cater to a large number of people or multiple families.

Of course, ultimate costs will depend on the fixtures and fittings chosen for the building, as well as the sophistication of MEP systems.

We have also discussed the fact that steel shipping containers are strong and durable. In general, they are resistant to mold, fire, and the bugs and insects that so often attack timber structures.

A great advantage is that irrespective of the size and design of container structures, individual units can be converted in a factory environment and then delivered to site where the various containers in the design are assembled and completed. On-site activities might include roofing, cladding, connection and internal installation of water supply and other plumbing elements and well as electricity and gas, and HVAC systems.

The fact that freight containers are central to so-called shipping container construction doesn’t mean that traditional materials are not used. In fact, it is very easy for designers to incorporate elements constructed from timber, bricks and mortar, or even other metal. And, of course, the HVAC and MEC systems should all be sustainable and in keeping with the very same systems used for conventional construction projects.