When you think of storage containers, chances are you imagine a battered old metal box stuck on a freighter being shipped from one side of the globe to the other. And for many of the 17 million shipping containers in circulation, that sounds about right. But there’s a new trend these days – the container home.

Since the property market is about as stable as the Atlantic during a tempest, more and more people are coming up with new and inventive ways to find shelter. One of the most creative ways has been to use containers as living quarters. So popular and innovative is the idea that even Channel 4’s Grand Designs have got in on the act, following the creation of a farmer’s dream home from four units.

Take a trip over the Cork and you’ll see this trend isn’t limited to just the UK – the whole world is getting involved. A heart-warming project has seen the country’s first shipping container home built. More than 60 tradesmen volunteered to give up their time and labour totally free of charge in order to see the construction through to completion. Originally it was put on show within the grounds of the Irish Museum of Modern Art throughout November, with plans to donate the completed house to the charity St. Vincent de Paul. There are plans to use the home to house a family in time for Christmas – which we think is pretty awesome.

There are obvious benefits to converting containers into homes. Of course they’re cheaper to construct than traditional building methods, which means they’re a viable and affordable alternative. But they’re also durable, transportable, totally modular and there’s plenty of them, which means rather than junking old containers, they can be recycled and re-used.

Here at Flintham Cabins, we love seeing how our industry is evolving. After all, it’s our job and our passion. If you’re seeking steel container hire in London for a range of sizes, we can help. Simply contact us on 0208 459 6972 and our professional staff will be more than happy to assist with your enquiries.