Want to build your dream house without spending on bricks and cement? Take a cue from Will Breaux, a designer, who used shipping containers to build his dream house – the McGowen container house. And it’s not just a one-room apartment, but a massive three-storied house spread over an area of 2,500 square feet!
If you find it difficult to believe, you just need to see it. It stands at McGowen Street in Houston, Texas, USA. Breaux built the three stories by using 11 containers. Although the façade of the house is nothing to write home about, it’s the interiors that take one’s breath away. It has an impressive living room, a modern kitchen and a most comfy-looking bedroom. And the best part of the house is its rooftop deck, which provides a spectacular view of Houston city.
Why did Breaux choose shipping containers for building his dream house? Well, he wanted his very own house for a long time and wanted it designed his way. After failing to find professional builders to do his bidding, he chose to go it alone. He chose shipping containers, since they’re not only strong and long-lasting but also fireproof and hurricane resistant. They also possess similar characteristics.
Breaux, who is not a professional builder, went ahead to fulfill his dream by learning everything he could about building shipping container homes. He started off by making a 3D sketch of his dream house and styled and furnished the containers as per his choice.
In an interview in khou.com, Breaux explains the construction, thus, “It’s very non-traditional, not only the home but the construction itself. These 11 containers are a single-family structure. It’s the most extensive container structure we’re aware of.”
With shipping containers placed one on top of the other, the house appears to be made of building blocks. The property where the container home stands are owned by Breaux. He’s more than satisfied with his labor of love. Says he on khou.com, “It’s been more hands-on than I ever imagine it would be.”
