Shipping Container Home

This high-performance, 8x40 shipping container home is a professional-grade build that prioritizes durability, energy efficiency, and modern architectural craft. Constructed with a strict focus on building science and high-end finishes, the project offers a sophisticated alternative to standard container dwellings.  This structure was built as the centerpiece of the Yestermorrow Shipping Container Certificate program. Under the expert guidance of three design/build professionals, seven dedicated students completed the rigorous work required to transform a simple metal box into a high-performance, beautifully unique living space. 

Quick-Reference Specifications

• Dimensions: 40' x 8' High Cube
• Exterior Insulation: Insofast + Rockwool (R-33 Ceiling / R-40 Walls)  
• Windows/Doors: Marvin Elevate Series  
• HVAC Prep: Renewaire ERV & Mini-Split ready  
• Foundation Needed: Insulated crawl space or full basement  
• Price (As-Is): $50,000  
• Price (Turnkey): $90,000+ (Depending on finishes) 

Pricing

This container home was built entirely during our intensive certificate program, meaning that 100% of the labor to date has been provided at no cost to the buyer. We paused construction at the end of the course to give the buyer more control over the budget. We are able to offer buyers the following price options: 

• The DIY Route ($50,000): Take advantage of the free, high-quality labor already baked into the structure and finish the interior yourself to save tens of thousands of dollars.
• The Turnkey Route ($90,000+): Let our professional Yestermorrow staff take the reins. We charge standard market rates for our professional crew, allowing you to contract us to customize the final finishes exactly to your taste.

Architectural Design & Finishes

The interior is designed with a "material-forward" aesthetic, blending the industrial character of the exposed, painted shipping container with warm, natural textures.

• Custom Cabinetry & Millwork: Features custom birch plywood cabinetry in the kitchen and bedroom, complemented by birch trim, baseboards, and deep windowsills.
• Premium Surfaces: The kitchen includes a custom concrete countertop with a "waterfall" feature, and the entire unit is finished with durable, waterproof marmoleum flooring.
• Unique Profile: The design incorporates slanted walls that provide both a distinct modern aesthetic and increased insulation depth. The exterior is clad in locally sourced vertical shiplap siding, with standing-seam metal on the end walls.

High-Performance Building Envelope

This container home utilizes a high-performance thermal envelope to ensure year-round comfort and air quality.

• Insulation System: The structure is insulated using Insofast, a system specifically engineered for shipping containers,  supplemented by Rockwool batts.
  • R - 33 ceiling
  • R - 40 wall
• Windows: Equipped with Marvin Elevate Series windows and doors throughout for superior thermal performance. 
• Roofing: The roof is a professionally installed EPDM rubber system.
• Moisture Management: The build includes a high-performance rain screen to protect the structure and manage moisture effectively.

Mechanicals & Infrastructure

The home is outfitted with efficient, modern mechanical systems for healthy living and climate control.

• Air Quality & HVAC: Wired and prepped for a Renewaire ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator) for continuous fresh air exchange and an energy-efficient mini-split for heating and cooling.
• Electrical & Utilities: All electrical work was installed under a licensed electrician and features surface-mounted components. Hot water is provided by an electric on-demand heater.
• Lighting: Integrated LED lighting throughout the unit.

Transport and Site Considerations

Designed for mobility, this unit can be delivered via flatbed truck. Depending on site access, it can be placed directly onto a foundation or set via crane. Yestermorrow staff is available to advise on transportation logistics.

This unit is designed as a permanent dwelling and is intended to be installed on an insulated crawl space or a full basement. It is ready to be connected to a site service panel, with water and septic hookups to be completed upon installation.

Work to be Completed

Below is a detailed list of work to be completed. 

1. Performance Envelope & Systems

• Mechanicals: Installation of the Renewaire ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator) and the Minisplit.
• Electrical Final: Install the main service panel and exterior light fixtures.
• Plumbing Rough-in & Finish: Install water lines, hot water heater, and fixtures.
• Appliance Integration: Install the washer/dryer unit.

2. Kitchen & Cabinetry

• Concrete Countertop Finishing: Drill faucet hole, wet-sand the waterfall counter, apply finish, and secure to countertop.
• Cabinetry Fabrication: Build and install drawer boxes and drawer fronts for the kitchen and bedroom units.
• Appliance Install: Set and connect the cooktop, oven, and refrigerator.
• Finish Work: Install the tile backsplash, kitchen sink, and faucet.

3. Full Bathroom Build-Out

• Shower: Install the shower base, walls, surround, and all associated fixtures.
• Fixtures: Install the vanity, sink, faucet, and toilet.
• Flooring & Door: Install flooring and hang/trim the bathroom door.
• Surfaces: Complete final mudding, painting, and general bathroom labor.

4. Interior Finishing & Millwork

• Drywall & Paint: Complete mudding, drywall repairs, and final painting in the main living space.
• Trim & Detail: Install all baseboards and corner trim throughout the unit.
• Cabinetry Finish: Apply final protective finish to all kitchen and bedroom cabinetry and trim.

5. Exterior Finish

• Siding: Complete the remaining standing seam metal siding on the end walls.