Smart Design, 600 SQFT Container Home

Containers are an extremely flexible method of construction, being both modular in shape, extremely strong structurally and readily available. A home made from steel shipping containers offers a fast, green, and sustainable approach to building. These inter-modal steel building units (ISBUs) are manufactured in a factory-controlled environment so they are standardized and reliable. They can be used to build an average-sized home with almost no wood. Shipping containers are in many ways an ideal building material. They are designed to carry heavy loads and to be stacked in high columns. They are also designed to resist harsh environments - such as on ocean-going vessels or sprayed with road salt while transported on roads.

Smart Design lays the foundation of sustainable dwellings. This means using advanced computer modeling to create homes that take the most advantage of natural light and passive heating and cooling. It means designing to use less, to use interior space wisely, and designing for longevity, flexibility and healthy living. Design to use less, design to make a space feel larger than it is, design for double function so that spaces within a home can serve several uses. Large window walls bring in natural light minimizing the need for artificial light while framing the landscape beyond.

Beach House Renovation Design at Lazy Point

300 SQFT Container House

Using innovative 3D modeling technology, I design homes to fit the sun, wind, and weather patterns specific to a building site. Wise use of a home’s natural environment can offer the most cost effective energy savings available. I believe that a well insulated building enclosure is the most effective way to get energy efficiency from your home. I use high-performing insulation and high efficiency, low-E, gas-filled windows to help self-regulate the interior home climate. I choose the most cost efficient tankless water heaters, radiant floor systems, and high efficiency heat pumps for each project. The heating systems are installed in our homes to save money by using less energy, and to maximize comfort through amenities like whole-floor radiant heat. For cooling, home positioning on the site to maximize healthy air flow, green roofs, window shading, and energy efficient ceiling fans can all help passively cool the home. We also use high efficiency air conditioning systems for optimal comfort in hot climates.