Shipping Container Houses: Ultimate Customization Guide

Ultimate Guide to Customising Interiors of Shipping Container Houses March, 31

Innovative and sustainable in comparison to traditional housing, you are spoilt for choice when customising shipping container home interiors. From the number of bedrooms to a convenient study nook, there are many layouts to weigh up.

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In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the benefits of shipping container houses, delve into some beautiful designs and past projects, and provide tips for creating a stylish home anyone can live in comfortably.

What Are The Advantages Of Shipping Container Houses?

Affordability: You don’t need to fork out tens of thousands for an initial deposit, and you’re not stuck paying a 30-year mortgage with shipping container homes. They often come at a lower cost compared to conventional houses and are fully equipped for everyday living, offering a convenient, efficient living solution without compromising on modern amenities, so home ownership is accessible to all ages.

Sustainability: Repurposing shipping containers reduces construction waste and promotes recycling. You will feel happy knowing you’re contributing to minimising landfill, conserving resources and cutting down on material costs.

Durability: Constructed from steel, shipping containers are designed (even before they’re turned into homes) to handle all weather conditions. Sonic Steel homes exterior cladding is made from corten steel and cement sheets for the whole of the interior cladding.

Flexibility: The modular nature of containers allows for creative configurations and expansions. Sonic Steel home layouts and inclusions are fully customisable, from the room sizes to the location of power points.

Speed of Construction: Building with prefabricated containers often cuts back construction time, so you can move in sooner.

Shipping Container Interior Customisation

If you’ve never looked into a tiny home before, you might be confused about where to start for customisation!

Using Natural Lighting

Natural lighting makes a shipping container home look significantly larger; here are some of your options!

Strategic Window Placement: Installing windows on multiple sides of the container allows light to get through, so you don’t need to rely on artificial lighting. For example, windows above your kitchenette, home office, or next to the bed!

Skylights: Skylights are a great way to introduce vertical light sources, brightening the interior and creating an open feel. Sonic Steel can install Velux solar-operated skylights above your lounge area, which includes a remote and rain sensor.

Doors: Sonic Steel uses thermally broken, double glazing and low-e doors and double-glazed windows and sliding doors, which you can position adjacent to your kitchen to really brighten it up.

What about open floor plans?

An open floor plan can make compact container spaces feel more expansive.

Multi-Functional Areas: Combining kitchen, dining, and living areas into a single open space eliminates unnecessary walls, fostering a sense of openness. Put your study desk next to the kitchenette!

Minimalist Design: Sonic Steel makes spaces feel larger and more comfortable with compact yet functional kitchen and living spaces. Customise your shipping container with a gas-lift double bed, double wall bed, storage such as open shelves, underbed storage, bedside storage, cupboards, drawers, a double undermount sink, and more. The gas lift double bed gives you a lot more space for storage, too.

Sonic Steel: Shipping Container Home Projects

Let’s take a look at some real-world examples of our shipping container projects across Australia.

Aireys Inlet, VIC

This is a family home with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and an open plan living and kitchen area. Accommodating any family’s needs at any stage of life, the Mark 2T blends indoor and outdoor living with a full-height sliding door and picture frame windows, which are high-performance from Miglas.

Other special features include Miglas windows and doors, external shades, a Reclaim heat pump, Zehnder CA200 HRV, cork-style interior cladding, and more.

Shanes Park, NSW

This practical layout features a double bedroom, full kitchen with breakfast bar, a spacious bathroom, lounge area, and utility compartment for tools and a washing machine.

Ticking all the boxes for ventilation, insulation and a premium finish, the Mark IV has 70mm and 90mm PUR panels insulating the wall and ceiling, while polyester is used for underfloor insulation.

Cooyar QLD

This Mark III was built for a family of 4 as a holiday home north of Toowoomba, QLD. With temperatures dropping below 5C in winter, it was important for the home to be insulated, which is exactly what we did with 70mm PUR panels and 32mm infills on the ceiling and walls, as well as R2.5 earthwool under the floor.

Mechanical ventilation is achieved by Zehnder HRV, whereas natural ventilation is through Low-E, double glazed windows and an operable skylight. On top of Sonic Steel’s VenSulation system, the home achieved an air-tightness rating of 1.8 ACH, which adds to the thermal comfort and efficiency.

This is an off-grid home with a hybrid system of solar power and LPG. Cooking appliances and hot water heaters are gas operated, and lighting, HVAC and other appliances run on the Sky Energy solar system, consisting of 4.15kW panels, 7.0kWh batteries and 3kVA inverter. A cassette toilet was installed for occasional use, and the existing water tank is filled twice a year by bulk water cartage service.

Port Neil, SA

The Mark T brings container homes to the next level–literally. Comprising 3 shipping container modules, this offers a lot of space! The ground floor assimilates the base layout of the Mark IV with the addition of the 7ft module that houses the internal staircases and leads up to the 20ft above, which has access to front and back decks.

This customisation offers finishes such as the Altair 120 and Zehnder HRVs, double glazings with LowE and thermally broken frames, Milu odourless toilet, Unico Pro air cons, and more for comfortable living.

Wardell, NSW

Mark Twins is a multi-containers build which joins two 40ft containers side by side to make a 60 sqm home. The containers were designed, engineered and built at Sonic to the lock-up stage, and then were delivered and assembled at a rural property in Wardell, northern NSW.

This space has two spacious bedrooms, a bathroom and laundry, and an open kitchen and living area with direct access to the covered timber deck that overlooks a horse paddock with a dam. It was built to be airtight, well insulated with Sonic Steel’s PUR and mechanically ventilated by the Altair 120 HRV!

RFBI Raleigh

With a double bedroom, full kitchen and a lounge, the Mark IV offers all the utilities you would need to call this home! Packed with Sonic Steel’s VenSulation ventilation system and underfloor insulation, Velux skylight, double-glazed windows and doors, comfort is always a priority.

The open bathroom layout with the Pan Fan system ensures a smell-free toilet and a fresh space between your bedroom and kitchen. View the brochure to learn more.

Building Materials for Your Container Home

What are some of the building materials and methods Sonic Steel uses for shipping container houses?

Interior Cladding

Cement sheets clad all wall and ceiling surfaces for shipping container homes as they are resistant to cracking, warping and other external damages.

Offering excellent insulation properties, cement sheeting keeps interiors warm in winter and cooler in summer, is resistant to mould, rotting, moisture, and doesn’t need much maintenance!

Exterior Cladding

Sonic Steel builds all homes from corten steel due to its resistance to atmospheric corrosion and strength no matter the environment. The steel is then enhanced further with marine-grade paint, which:

• Completely UV resistant
• Handles rain, hail, winds and sunshine, so it doesn’t rust
• Forms a tough layer that resists chipping, cracking, and peeling
• Provides a smooth, glossy finish
• Available in a number of colours for customisation

Flooring

Karndean luxury planks are durable, beautiful, and are always practical. Replicating the look of natural wood and stone, they give shipping container homes that high-end look to them.

They are also waterproof, easy to clean, and comfortable underfoot. Sonic Steel even glues them down so they last longer. In terms of customising your spaces, let us know whether you’d like white, grey, beige, brown, black, or something specific.

Skylights

A home doesn’t feel like a home without lighting, and Sonic Steel shipping containers can be customised with Velux skylights. There are a few types you can pick:

• A fixed skylight
• An operable skylight, which is manual or remote-controlled
• Velux blinds, manual or remote control

Using skylights helps to elevate your living experience (instead of a confined space!), bringing in natural sunlight, ventilation and creating an inviting atmosphere.

High-Quality Materials and Features

With great quality fitting and fixtures around, let’s take a look at some of the inclusions.

• Daikin split system
• Rinnai hot water heater
• Westinghouse appliances
• Powder coated tapware
• Full-size porcelain (grout free)
• Undermount pyragranite sink
• Square set ceiling
• Square set cavity slider with solid door
• Weatherproof built-in service compartment
• Waterproof service outlets
• Wet area waterproofing

The Sonic Steel VenSulation system is the only one on the market that addresses ventilation, insulation and condensation for container homes!

What about Off-Grid Systems?

Sonic Steel works with Sky Energy to create a custom off-grid power solution that works for you.

For more information, please visit custom expandable container home.

Sky Energy’s SkyBox is a battery and computer system that manages energy inputs (solar, wind generator) and combines them into one reliable output of power. This creates a grid-level supply of electricity, including three-phase power.

Shipping Container Modifications

Sonic Steel also offers Shipping Container Modifications! We custom design and construct premium shipping container modifications, from site offices to granny flats, that provide insulation, ventilation, and have proper condensation. How can we modify one to suit you?

Shipping Container Offices: Portable offices are becoming more popular than ever before, and a shipping container office is great for corporate work or recording spaces.

Shipping Container Bar and Cafe: Container homes work for residential living, but also for commercial applications such as small cafes and bars. A shipping container café takes up minimal space but still gives you enough room for a small kitchen, serving area and stock room.

Shipping Container Fabrications: From shelves to roller doors for workshops and man caves, countless people have converted shipping containers into spaces for personal use. Sonic Steel creates fully furnished, prefabricated containers.

How Else Can You Customise Your Shipping Container?

The interior of your shipping container home sets the tone for comfort, and there are many ways to customise your space even after it’s been built.

Neutral Colour Palettes: Using whites, greys, and earth tones to create a calm setting.

Clean Lines: Selecting furniture with simple designs.

Decluttering: Keeping possessions to a minimum so your space remains open and airy. Add some things you like!

Artwork: Display pieces that resonate with you to add personality and visual interest.

Colour Accents: Introducing pops of your favourite colours through cushions, rugs, or feature walls. If you have an idea in mind, reach out to Sonic Steel for a professional recommendation or view our brochure.

We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach, so if you’d like a bespoke build, we will always be ready to make one. From joining multiple containers side by side or building a double-storey, we will work with you to achieve a design that suits your requirements and budget. View our custom designs for inspiration. ALL container homes are manufactured in Australia.

Need Relocatable Container Homes in Australia? Call Us!

Sonic Steel has been a specialist in the shipping container homes industry since . Beginning as a repair and maintenance service provider before expanding into modification, we construct functional container homes.

We bring our client’s vision to life, creating a personalised design and living space. Blending our engineering knowledge with technical skills, we build unique, sustainable living solutions that represent the best of what we have to offer.

Whether you’re looking for shipping container homes for your Victoria, NSW, or SA residence, our systems, designs and services give you the best in off-grid, alternative living. Contact us today by calling 03 , emailing or visiting us in Brooklyn, VIC by appointment.

Yes, expandable container houses are worth it for those seeking affordable, flexible, and sustainable housing or workspace solutions. They offer rapid installation, customization options, and eco-friendly benefits, making them ideal for diverse needs. However, factors like space, local regulations, and insulation should be considered. With SteelPRO PEB’s expertise, you can overcome these challenges and get a tailored, high-quality solution that meets your goals.

What Are Expandable Container Houses?

Expandable container houses represent a contemporary advancement of traditional container housing. Repurposed from shipping containers, these modular homes offer flexibility, mobility, and customization, making them adaptable to changing needs.

Defining Expandable Container Houses

At their core, expandable container houses “unfold” or “expand” to increase living or functional space. This is achieved through:

• Slide-Out Sections: Extra rooms slide out, similar to RVs.
• Folding Panels: Walls or floors unfold for larger interiors or outdoor spaces.
• Stackable Modules: Units can be stacked to expand vertically or horizontally.

This versatility makes them ideal for homes, offices, or temporary accommodations.

Key Features of Expandable Container Houses

• Durability: Built with corrosion-resistant steel, they withstand harsh weather.
• Customizability: Layouts and designs can be tailored to specific needs.
• Mobility: Easy to relocate, perfect for businesses or evolving lifestyles.
• Eco-Friendliness: Repurposed materials reduce waste and support sustainability.

Expandable Container Houses Uses

• For families: Affordable, expandable living spaces.
• For businesses: Rapidly deployable offices or workspaces.
• For emergencies: Quick setup for temporary housing.

Why Expandable Container Homes Are Worth the Money

Expandable container homes are a popular alternative to traditional housing due to their cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and sustainability. They present practical and innovative solutions catering to residential, commercial, and temporary housing requirements. With careful design and reliable manufacturing, they offer value beyond the initial savings. Let’s explore why these homes are worth considering.

1. Cost-Effectiveness

Expandable container homes are significantly cheaper than traditional construction. Using repurposed containers reduces material costs, while modular construction minimizes labor and shortens timelines. This cost-effectiveness is critical for customers managing a budget.

By optimizing manufacturing and logistics, we ensure that every project reduces waste and shipping costs. Pre-assembled components not only save construction time, but also reduce installation expenses, providing customers with a practical, affordable solution.

2. Flexibility and Customization

These homes can be seamlessly adapted to different applications, from family homes to temporary offices or retail spaces. Modular layouts can be expanded or adjusted to suit changing needs, and customization options allow for specific designs, whether it’s energy-saving insulation, additional storage, or unique finishes.

SteelPRO PEB builds this flexibility into every project by providing custom designs that fit your specific use case. Need an open plan workspace? Or a compact home with versatile furniture? Our team works closely with you to create a layout and functionality that not only meets your current needs, but also leaves room for future expansion.

3. Sustainability

Reusing containers reduces construction waste and supports resource conservation, making expandable container homes an eco-friendly alternative. Incorporating features like solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and high-performance insulation amplifies their environmental advantages even further.

We incorporate sustainability into our processes by using recycled materials and providing energy-efficient solutions. This not only helps clients achieve their environmental goals, but also reduces long-term operating costs, making these homes a smart choice for organizations seeking eco-friendly spaces.

4. Speed ​​and Convenience

Expandable container homes can be constructed and deployed at a much faster pace compared to traditional construction methods. These homes are prefabricated in a controlled setting, minimizing on-site labor and guaranteeing consistent quality. Upon delivery, they are immediately ready for use, making them perfect for projects with stringent deadlines.

SteelPRO PEB’s manufacturing methods further enhance this convenience. All units are pre-engineered and assembled in our state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring consistent quality and reducing on-site labor. Once delivered, they can be deployed quickly with minimal setup, allowing you to focus on what matters most – whether that’s running your business or settling into a new space.

5. Durability and Safety

Crafted from premium, corrosion-resistant steel, these homes are engineered to endure severe weather conditions, including high winds and earthquakes. Their durability ensures long-term reliability, whether for temporary or permanent use.

Our designs are rigorously tested to meet safety and durability standards, giving you peace of mind that your investment is both safe and long-lasting. Whether you’re in an area prone to extreme weather or just need a sturdy, reliable structure, our container homes deliver exceptional performance.

Challenges and Considerations of Expandable Container Houses

While expandable container homes present numerous advantages, there are also challenges that need to be taken into account during the planning and implementation phases of these structures. Addressing these challenges with expert guidance and innovative solutions ensures that these homes meet specific requirements while remaining practical and valuable.

Regulations and Permits

One of the main challenges facing expandable container homes is complying with local building codes and zoning regulations. Rules vary by region and can have a significant impact on the approval and use of container homes. Mistakes in compliance can result in delays or additional costs.

We provide professional guidance to help clients navigate this complexity. Our team consults on local requirements, including permits, foundation codes, and safety standards, ensuring that each project complies with the relevant laws. By leveraging our expertise, clients can avoid regulatory hurdles and focus on achieving their vision.

Insulation and Climate Control

Containers are constructed from steel, which is a highly efficient conductor of heat and cold. This can result in discomfort if adequate insulation and climate control measures are not put in place. Without effective solutions, these homes can struggle to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature in extreme climates.

To tackle this challenge, we incorporate advanced insulation materials and implement energy-efficient climate control systems. From high-performance wall and roof insulation to optimized ventilation and HVAC solutions, we ensure that each container home remains comfortable and energy-efficient no matter the environment. These features not only elevate the living experience but also contribute to lower energy costs in the long run.

Space Constraints

The compact size of a container can sometimes feel restrictive, especially for a home or business with specific space requirements. Without thoughtful design, this can lead to inefficient or uncomfortable daily use.

We overcome space constraints through smart design strategies. Our projects maximize available space through features such as multifunctional furniture, open layouts, and creative storage solutions. By carefully planning the interior design, we ensure that every square meter is optimized for functionality and comfort, making the most of the container’s footprint.

Is an Expandable Container House Right for You?

Expandable container houses are a versatile solution, but they’re not for everyone. Knowing your target audience and use cases can assist in assessing whether they correspond with your requirements. These structures are particularly ideal for:

• Budget-Conscious Homeowners: If you’re looking for an affordable yet durable housing solution, expandable container houses provide a cost-effective alternative to traditional homes.
• Businesses Requiring Rapid Deployment: For companies needing quick office setups, worker accommodations, or temporary retail spaces, their fast installation makes them a practical choice.
• Emergency and Temporary Housing: Organizations managing disaster relief or temporary housing projects benefit from their mobility and ease of deployment.

Our products are tailored to meet these diverse needs. Whether you’re a homeowner seeking a compact and functional living space, a business needing a flexible workspace, or an organization responding to urgent housing needs, we offer solutions designed to align with your goals. With customizable designs, rapid manufacturing, and durable materials, we ensure every container house is built for purpose and long-term value.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Prefab House Manufacturer. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

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