Bleck Architects

Repurposed Shipping Containers

 

Shipping containers revolutionized the shipping industry in the late 1950’s and have been the standard for shipping goods ever since. Although they may seem to be an unlikely choice, architects are now increasingly reusing shipping containers for architectural projects. Repurposed shipping containers can be a versatile and cost-effective alternative to standard construction methods. Let’s explore why you may want to consider reusing shipping containers for your next project.

An eco-conscious choice

In recent years, designers and the general public are increasingly interested in recycling and repurposing old materials. Shipping containers are a part of the repurposing trend. At our office, we like that repurposed shipping containers are a Green choice.

Shipping containers are also standardized, ready-made, configurable, strong, readily available, and often inexpensive. In our practice, we have used them as unique interior elements, creating discrete spaces within larger open spaces.

Repurposed shipping containers have become a trendy architectural material in many parts of the world. Here’s why:

  • Repurposed shipping containers are eco-friendly, saving materials and energy.
  • They are a low-cost option, particularly when repurposed in port areas.
  • Repurposed shipping containers lend an industrial aesthetic to building projects.
  • They are durable and readily available.
  • Shipping containers can be modified to suit a variety of functions, styles, and locations.

Using repurposed shipping containers

You may want to consider incorporating repurposed shipping containers for projects in which the following traits are desired:

  • Unique look
  • Industrial style
  • Eco-conscious
  • Recycled/repurposed content
  • Strong
  • Configurable
  • Quickly available

Here are a few varied examples of the many architectural projects which use shipping containers:

Strong, industrial Aesthetic, eco-friendly, low-cost

Shipping containers consist of a rigid reinforced box made of heavy steel. When used in architecture, the heavy, strong structure resists wind, explosions, fire, and pests. We used them as explosion-proof batching control rooms within a conventionally-built building at AC Ready Mix in Carpentersville.

Many times, we are looking to bring a unique, industrial aesthetic to our projects. In these cases, shipping containers can be a great choice. At Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, we used a shipping container as an industrial-looking control room for King Chaos. At the Scorched Earth Brewery in Algonquin, we are using 4 shipping containers for an interior renovation/expansion.

As LEED-certified professionals, we are always conscious of the environmental impact of our choices. Repurposed shipping containers are an eco-friendly choice because the content is repurposed. Because we are reusing materials, both steel materials and energy are conserved.

Note: Recycled materials are another great choice for architectural projects – building product manufacturers are increasingly including recycled content in their products.

Low-cost repurposed shipping containers are modular and relocatable. Because of this, they can be an especially good choice for providing temporary housing and pop-up shops.

Consider using repurposed shipping containers

Would you consider using repurposed shipping containers as a part of your next project? We like the idea! Although they may seem to be an unlikely choice, architects are increasingly choosing to incorporate them into building projects. Repurposed shipping containers can complement traditional construction methods and may be a versatile and cost-effective option for your next project.