Upcycling Shipping Containers – 14 Ways to Transform ISO Containers
Are you ready to be different than everyone else? Are you wanting to build something out of a box? If you are saying yes to both questions, shipping containers could be a great option for you! ISO containers are a practical and cost-effective approach to building a unique structure.
Although shipping containers were designed for storing and transporting goods, there are so many different ways to upcycle steel containers into a wide variety of new structures.
So, what can you really build with a shipping container? The short answer is almost anything! Shipping containers are commonly used by businesses (large and small), and individuals as these highly customizable containers provide a scalable building block to create extra storage, retail space, restaurants, and so much more.
Here’s a look, including images, at how shipping containers have been, and are still being, put to use.
14 Ways to Transform Shipping Containers
Storage and Sheds
Storage, it's one of the most common and basic uses for a shipping container, but it's what they are best at! At Super Cubes, we help individuals and businesses source and customize containers every day for this exact purpose. There are countless ways to use shipping container storage, whether it’s a backyard shed, farm equipment storage, a construction site solution, or extra space for a school or business.
Fire Training Stations
Ready for one you weren't expecting? We've seen shipping containers used for fire training stations. Containers are constructed of corrugated steel, are exceptionally durable, and, unlike many other materials, they can be burned again and again! As long as you replace that wood floor with something that doesn’t burn.Restaurants and Bars
Shipping containers can make a great foundation for building a restaurant, bar, or even a food truck-style setup. Containers are durable, easy to customize, and give a modern, industrial feel that a lot of people love. There are countless examples of shipping container restaurants out there—from small coffee stands to full-service kitchens—showing just how versatile and creative these spaces can be.
Portable Toilets
Portable toilets might be another shipping container transformation you're surprised to see on our list. But they are a great alternative to port-a-potties and provide ground-level entry that can be moved to wherever you need them.
Retail Shops and Malls
Shipping containers also work well as retail shops; they offer a compact and customizable space that really stands out. They’re a great option for pop-up stores, seasonal sales (think Christmas Tree stand), or even permanent storefronts with a modern aesthetic. With the right modifications, containers can create an inviting shopping experience while keeping costs lower than traditional buildings.
Downtown Container Park in Las Vegas is a perfect example of how to take a great, creative idea and make it a reality.
Food trucks take over Toronto
Las Vegas, here we come!
Cinquecento restaurant’s outdoor bar in Boston
Saunas, Pools and Pool Houses
A shipping container sauna, pool or pool house? Who doesn’t want one of these!? They are a fantastic way to enhance your outdoor space, offering a stylish, functional, and cost-effective solution.
How to Choose the Right Shipping Container
Student Housing and Schools
Shipping containers can be adapted for educational use, serving as micro schools, tutoring spaces, temporary classrooms, training centers and study spaces.
Emergency Hospitals and Disaster Shelters
Containers can check so many boxes in this area, from storage solutions for emergency response to mobile medical clinics to tornado shelters. Shipping containers can be moved quickly and easily, making them a strong choice to provide assistance and support in a crisis scenario.
Nurseries and Indoor Gardens
This is such a great, sustainable way for locally grown food just about anywhere. Check out how they do it in Antarctica, Las Vegas and just about anywhere you can set down a container.
Theaters
Detroit Globe Theater (A Super Cubes customer) is a fantastic example of taking something old - Shakespeare’s Globe Theater - and putting a fresh twist on it. The classic feel of live theater in the round, with the ability to transport the theater as needed.
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Studios, Art Gallery and Workshops
Shipping containers can make for great art studios, workshops and even pop-up art galleries. Take a look at Maroon Arts Group in Columbus, OH, which has turned containers into an art gallery, a stage and a restaurant called the MPACC Box Park.
Gymnasiums and Sport Centers
It’s pretty neat to say you can get your energy out while being active in a shipping container! Well, the Dunraven’s Sports Hall in Streathan, London is an extraordinary example of how containers can be turned into a large, usable structure.
Where to Buy Your Shipping Container
As you can see here, there are so many uses for 20' and 40’ ISO shipping containers. If you’re looking to purchase a shipping container for your personal or commercial project, Super Cubes can help you find and modify your container to your exact needs. Get in touch today to find the right container and start turning your vision into reality.
This is an updated blog that was originally published in 2018.
Super Cubes is a family-owned business located in Minneapolis, MN, that provides containers anywhere in the continental US. We offer personalized service for individuals and businesses, providing high-quality containers at competitive prices. With nationwide facilities, we can modify and deliver containers close to you. Contact our experienced team for your next container project.