Repurposing Abandoned Shipping Containers - a Sustainable Approach to Homebuilding

Kijeong Jeon (California Sate University Chico)

In the modern-day trade world, shipping containers are most frequently used to import or export goods. Because of their ubiquity, over a million abandoned shipping containers have been found in harbors and on surrounding docks throughout the United States. Though they were originally conceived to transport goods, shipping containers have begun serving a disparate purpose. Designers and architects worldwide have taken on the challenge of turning them into housing structures.

In a housing context, shipping containers can function as single-room modules that form a multi-room system when combined. Although modifications can be made to the containers to create spacious and dynamic structures, designing a home or building using shipping containers limits the design to the container’s dimensions, restricting freedom of design. This presentation will share the overall design process with sustainable approaches, including environmental control system.

Harsh, dry California summers with temperatures over 100 degrees influence the design of container houses. The orientation of the buildings, passive solar systems, and alternative insulation methods contribute to the climate control of the houses. For example, the containers are made of steel, which easily transmits cold and heat. To combat this unique issue, multiple measures must be taken to insulate the container homes; these measures include air pockets, bead insulation, ceramic paint, and solar guards. Mini split systems allow ductless, wall-mounted heat pumps to heat and cool the structures. These subtle additions contribute heavily to the homes’ energy efficiency.

Despite all the challenges of building a home using alternative materials, the rewards are significant. Repurposing abandoned shipping containers into residences not only provides unique aesthetics but also assists in mitigating non-decomposable waste. Contributing to an increase in forest preservation and a reduction in worldwide waste, shipping container residences are a sustainable approach to homebuilding.