Have you already heard of modern container construction? Or are you a passionate supporter of the tiny house movement in Germany? In both cases, it is worth gathering a little more information about modern container houses. Because it is actually about sustainable living in a limited space. Tiny houses have become a trend in recent years. Container houses are now an alternative to the classic construction of houses that cost a lot of money. More and more people are seeing them as a cost-effective way to expand their living space or to design their much-desired dream home in a small space and on a limited budget. We call tiny houses mini or tiny houses. They are sometimes called micro or single houses. What else you should know about container houses before you decide on such an alternative living option is explained below. Have we already piqued your interest?
Container houses can be mobile or stationary.
The most important things about the container houses at a glance
Because of the high prices of real estate, young people are looking for modern alternatives in terms of sustainable and nature-oriented living. They don’t want to spend a lot of money on their own house and get into debt for the rest of their lives. In fact, the financial aspect is always the decisive factor when choosing and designing their own four walls. Many modern-minded people prefer the minimalist style to luxury and more comfort and opt for a simple way of life. Better to live in a small living space, but simpler and closer to nature – that is the motto now! In this respect, container houses meet the housing needs of many people who prefer this way of life. For this reason, tiny houses are currently enjoying great popularity!
Discarded shipping containers do not necessarily have to end up in landfills
– What is a container house?
Container houses are made from recycled sea freight containers. They are solidly built from high-quality materials for voyages on the high seas, can bear great weight and can even be stacked on top of each other. They are therefore extremely stable and durable. In principle, such a container is used on ships for around 10 years. However, its lifespan is estimated at 35 years. After it has served its purpose on sea voyages, the container is still in good condition to be used for other purposes. So the idea came up to give shipping containers a second chance, to recycle them and make them ready for use again. They are built with natural materials and converted into environmentally friendly, comfortable and elegant mini houses. When recycling sea freight containers, the main thing is to ensure that they are well insulated. The containers are thermally insulated with polyurethane. This is a high-quality insulating material, also known as closed-cell PUR insulation. Thanks to this insulation, container houses can be used all year round.
Great idea! The container house can be set up as a home office in the garden!
– What can you use a container house for?
When recycling shipping containers, a weatherproof structural steel is used, namely the durable Corten steel. With this construction element, each container house is well protected from wind and rain. An attractive design has also been considered – open building plans, generous window fronts or double doors make the mini house inviting. In the summer months, the interior of the house is well ventilated, but remains pleasantly cool. This allows the mini houses to be used all year round. These are mainly used as an extension of the living space. Placed in your own garden, such a house can be used as a second living room, a work office or a guest house. Sports fans can set up their gym there, while artists use it as a studio. The possible uses of these houses are really numerous. Companies and private firms also appreciate their advantages. Since the houses are not only stationary but have mobility, they are used at trade fairs as offices, reception rooms and visitor centers. Small cafés or shops can also be made from them.
In the mini house in the garden you can work absolutely undisturbed.
Before you decide to build a container house
After complete renovation with natural materials, the container houses are ready for new use. Their construction is not complicated, because these are robust, durable modules that can be given new functions. The finished containers come in different sizes and offer different levels of comfort. They have an attractive appearance and are inviting. Some are even delivered turnkey and ready to use. Before you start building, you must obtain a building permit. Because every residential building in Germany requires a building permit. The floor area must be well prepared and level. You need a horizontal, solid and durable base. Of course, a solid foundation is an absolute must. Consider a solid floor slab and pouring concrete stilts. This way you can be sure that the mini house will serve you faithfully for many years.
A solid foundation is a must!
Conclusion:
Container houses are a cost-effective alternative to traditional house building. They are well suited for people with a limited budget who still want their own little house. The mini houses cost about a third of the average price of expensive houses made of stone, concrete and bricks. They are built from discarded sea freight containers and offer environmentally friendly living solutions that are future-oriented. Their average living space is about 20 square meters. They are perfect for fans of the minimalist lifestyle and can be used in a variety of ways and adapted to individual needs. For these reasons, the demand for container houses is increasing all over the world, including here in Germany.
Do you want to choose a mini house in your own garden?
The possible uses for recycled shipping containers are numerous.
You can quickly turn this into a small café.
You can decide for yourself where to place your container house.
An elegant wooden exterior cladding increases the thermal insulation inside.
