Shipping containers have often been used as base structures of buildings, a trend that is increasing.

What the architects say

They have been modified to be usd in bespoke ‘pop-up’ locations such as the Hassell-designed Urban Coffee Farm and Brew Bar which was part of the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival this year.

Joost Bakker created the Greenhouse – a modern transportable prefab restaurant which can pop-up anywhere.

But sometimes they are here to stay, such as the Re:Start Mall in Christchurch, New Zealand architect Anton Tritt of the Buchan Group.

Storage & Cargo

After the earthquakes across the city, shipping containers were originally chosen as they are strong and could be reused if the site owners wanted to build more permanent exterior buildings. However the success of the mall means they are likely to remain in place for years.

More space

This brings us to using these steel beasts to make surprisingly amazing smal homes, as Kristin Chirico of Buzzfeed reports – it is just like Lego for adults at a low cost.

Shipping Container Architecture & Designs

Brazilian architect Marcio Kogan doesn’t try to hide the containers, but instead lets the vibrant colours stand out.

Image: homedit.comImage: homedit.com

Image: homedit.comImage: homedit.com

Home made out of shipping containers

Adorable guest houses can be created in the back yard. It even includes a roof-top garden.

Image: homedit.comImage: homedit.com

Three

This beach house in New Zealand has perfect indoor-outdoor flow.

Image: onekindesign.comImage: onekindesign.com

Image: onekindesign.comImage: onekindesign.com

Four

They can also make for fairly cheap construction. The Manifesto House in Chile was constructed for only $US118,000.

Image: archdaily.comImage: archdaily.com

Five

Shipping containers can also be the perfect way to create a sustainable home. This small Ecopod can be on or off the grid, and only used recycled materials, such as car tires for the floor.

Image: thedailygreen.com

Image: thedailygreen.com

To see more houses made out of shipping containers, click here.