The instant shed: 5 creative backyard uses for shipping containers
Want to add usable space to your property? Look no further than the humble shipping container.
While they might be designed to carry goods over oceans, these versatile metal boxes are also the ideal basis for a backyard conversion project. Big, strong and weatherproof, shipping containers are built to last. They’re also cost-effective, readily available, and even transportable if you ever choose to move.
Looking for some container conversion inspiration? The following six ideas are a great place to start.
1. A pre-built backyard shed
No assembly required: a shipping container is an instant backyard shed that you can just place wherever you want it.
Durable, low maintenance and wind/water tight, shipping containers are built to protect whatever they’re holding in even the most intense conditions. Most also come with a lockbox, so you can sleep soundly knowing your valuable tools and gardening equipment are safe from Mother Nature and intruders.
While some minor fit-out work might be required, shipping containers are one of the simplest ways to add a shed to your yard.
2. A hobby space
Add insulation, ventilation, windows and lighting, and you can transform a shipping container into a comfortable space where you can pursue your hobby.
A home gym, an art studio, a craft space, a writing nook; whatever your interests, a carefully converted shipping container can play perfect host, for a distraction-free place dedicated to the things you enjoy.
3. A garage or workshop
Need long-term storage for a prized set of wheels? A garage is a common conversion option, because at 2.44m wide, standard shipping containers can comfortably hold most passenger vehicles.
Side opener containers are a popular choice for this type of conversion, as they grant you easy access to your vehicle versus the narrow confines of a standard end-opening container.
By adding electricity to your container you can turn it into a fully-fledged workshop, where you can clean and maintain your cars and tackle all sorts of other jobs.
4. An entertainment area or retreat
Have you dreamed of owning a backyard bar? Maybe you’re just looking for a quiet, private place where you can completely relax?
Shipping containers offer a simple way to add a comfortable standalone room to your property, which you can customise however you choose with lighting, decor, climate control and more. They’re also a truly unique addition to your yard, bringing an industrial aesthetic that can be dressed up as much (or as little) as you like.
5. A hydroponic farm
In hydroponic gardening, you play Mother Nature, controlling conditions to grow plants faster and more efficiently than you ever could in a garden or greenhouse. A shipping container provides the perfect setting to do exactly that.
By adding power, plumbing, insulation and ventilation, you can create whatever conditions you want within your container, and set yourself on the path to self-sustainability.
6. A container pool
While it’s easily the biggest conversion project on this list, a container pool also has the greatest potential to enhance both your lifestyle and property value.
The dimensions of a standard 40ft shipping container – 12.19m L x 2.44m W x 2.59m H – are like those of a particularly deep lap pool. Cut off the top, waterproof the inside, add water care systems and decking, and you’ve got a truly unique and luxurious addition to your backyard.
Container pools can be installed above-ground, in-ground, or partially buried and surrounded by decking.
What will you turn a shipping container into?
Combining versatility, simplicity, strength and cost-effectiveness, shipping containers are the ultimate blank canvas for your next big backyard project.
What will you make with your container? The options are endless – if you can dream it, you can more than likely do it.
Ready to get going on your project? Start by securing your perfect container today.
