High-End Shipping Container Home Built on a DIY Budget - TINY HOUSE TOUR

Summary

In this video, the speaker shares the journey of building a custom container home as a first-time project. They detail the challenges faced, such as paying for architectural plans, obtaining permits, and consulting a structural engineer for custom design elements like windows. The cost mentioned includes the fully furnished and equipped home, not just the construction. The foundation is temporary, as the container is situated on a friend's land, and it will be sold to fund future builds. The speaker encourages viewers to follow their journey on their website and YouTube channel.

Takeaways

• 😀 This container home build was the first project for the creator, leading to many valuable lessons learned during the process.
• 😀 The cost of the project was higher than expected due to various factors, including architectural plans, permits, and specialized structural engineering for unique features.
• 😀 The creator pushed design boundaries, particularly with the windows, requiring additional expertise to ensure structural stability.
• 😀 The total price of the container home includes not just the structure, but also furniture, appliances, and all necessary fittings, making it a fully functional home.
• 😀 The foundation of the container is currently on railroad ties, as the home is temporarily placed on a friend's land.
• 😀 The creator plans to sell the current container home to fund the construction of additional container homes in the future.
• 😀 The build incorporated pioneering design elements and materials, including features that are not commonly used in container homes.
• 😀 Permitting and regulations added significant costs to the overall project, demonstrating the importance of planning and adhering to local building codes.
• 😀 The video is part of a larger project called 'Uncontained Dreams,' which shares the journey of building innovative container homes.
• 😀 The creator encourages viewers to subscribe to *Exploring Alternatives* and share the video to help raise awareness about alternative living solutions.

Q & A

What is unique about the construction of this shipping container home?

The shipping container home is a fully DIY build, with every aspect—walls, floors, cabinets, countertops, and furniture—handcrafted by the builder. The builder, a former woodshop and metal shop teacher, applied his skills to create a functional living space for full-time use, incorporating clever design solutions for storage, comfort, and efficiency.

What is the name of the container home and how was it inspired?

The container home is named 'Rising Sun,' inspired by the builder's love for Japanese architecture and techniques. The name is a reference to Japan, often called the 'Land of the Rising Sun.' The design incorporates elements of Japanese styling, including a unique exterior finish and natural materials like cedar.

How does the builder manage to install windows in the container without welding?

The builder invented a method using blocks placed underneath and on top of the windows, which allows for installation on a flat surface instead of directly on the corrugated metal. This no-weld technique makes it easier for DIY builders to install windows in shipping containers without the need for welding skills.

How does the home address ventilation and humidity control?

The container has vents placed strategically to manage airflow and humidity. For example, the bathroom has a vent to expel moisture from the shower, while other vents control smoke and smells from the kitchen. This helps maintain the interior environment, especially in an airtight container home.

What are some of the multifunctional furniture pieces in the home?

The living room features a custom-built, hybrid walnut table that functions as both a side table and a dining table. The futon, also custom-made, can be converted into a comfortable bed. Additionally, there is a space-saving coffee table that stows away when not in use and a custom standing desk that doubles as wall art when closed.

Why did the builder choose blue cabinets for the kitchen?

The builder always wanted to incorporate blue cabinets into a design and decided to fulfill that vision for this container home. The blue cabinets are inset, providing a clean and modern look, and are complemented by soft-close mechanisms and ample storage space.

How does the builder address the storage challenges in a small container home?

The builder maximized storage through custom cabinetry, including a pantry for dry goods, a built-in appliance garage for small appliances, and a deep sink for dish storage. Additionally, the bedroom features a bed with hidden storage compartments and drawers, providing around 40 cubic feet of storage space.

What type of heating and cooling system is used in the container home?

The container home is equipped with a 9,000 BTU mini-split system, which provides both heating and cooling. This system is designed to be efficient and effective, maintaining a comfortable interior climate throughout the year.

How does the builder ensure the container is suitable for full-time living?

The builder designed the home with full-time living in mind, incorporating a full-size stove for cooking, a spacious kitchen with ample storage, a washer and dryer, and a continuous hot water heater. The layout and furniture are also customized to make the small space functional and comfortable for everyday use.

What is the total cost of building this container home, and what factors influenced this cost?

The total cost of building the container home exceeded $60,000. This higher-than-expected cost was due to several factors, including the need to pay for architectural plans, permits, and a structural engineer to ensure the home's safety and stability. Additionally, the cost reflects the DIY approach, custom furniture, and innovative techniques that were pioneered during the build.