20′ Shipping Container Floor Plans: Find Your Dream Tiny Home!

Standard Layouts and Dimensions

A standard 20’ shipping container is about 8’ wide and 8.5’ high with a length of 20’. These containers can be stacked on top of each other, making them easy to transport and store. However, to live comfortably in a 20’ container home, some creative layout options are required.

One popular layout option is the open-concept floor plan. This design makes use of the entire 20’ space, creating a large, open living area, with a kitchen and bathroom to the side. Another popular option, particularly for families, is to divide the container into several smaller rooms, such as a kitchen, living area, and two or three bedrooms.

The typical square footage for a 20’ shipping container home ranges from around 160 to 200 square feet, depending on the layout. To maximize space in a container home, it is essential to think creatively, such as building in storage areas, using multi-functional furniture, and choosing a minimalist interior design.

Customization Options

One of the most significant benefits of building a container home is the ability to customize it to one’s specific needs. There is a broad range of customization options available, such as choosing a different exterior color, adding windows, doors, and skylights, and choosing flooring and interior finishes.

There are even examples of more unique builds, such as using two containers to create a cantilevered living room or stacking them to create a two-story home. When it comes to customizing a container home, the possibilities are endless.

Off-Grid Capabilities

Another popular use for 20′ shipping containers is for off-grid living. Because they are already built to withstand harsh weather and can be easily transported, it’s relatively simple to create an off-grid home from a shipping container. The structure is ideal for solar panel installation, which can power the entire home, including lighting, heating, and cooling.

Water collection and filtration systems can also be installed, providing a self-reliant water supply. In addition, because the containers are made from steel, they are resistant to pests and are highly secure.

Cost Analysis

The cost of building a container home can vary depending on several factors, such as location, customization options, and the cost of the actual container. On average, a simple 20′ container home costs around $20,000 to $25,000. More complex builds, such as those with custom interior finishes, can cost up to $100,000.

While these prices might seem steep, they are significantly lower than traditional home construction costs. Building a container home can save money on both the initial construction cost and on maintenance costs over time, as the structure is highly durable and resistant to many types of damage.

Cost-saving tips when building a container home include purchasing a used container, which can save thousands of dollars, and keeping the design simple, avoiding costly add-ons.

20’ Shipping Container Floor Plans

Here are two examples of 20’ shipping container floor plans:

1. Open-Concept Floor Plan

The open-concept floor plan is an excellent option for singles or couples. It provides a large living space with ample room for a bedroom area, kitchen, and bathroom. To maximize space, built-in shelving and storage can be added, and multi-functional furniture can be used.

2. Three-Bedroom Layout

The three-bedroom layout is ideal for families. The container is divided into a living area with a kitchen, two smaller bedrooms for children, and a master bedroom with an en-suite bathroom. This layout offers privacy for parents while still providing adequate space for children.

Conclusion

20′ shipping container homes are an innovative and sustainable way to build a home. With customization options, off-grid capabilities, and cost-saving benefits, they are an attractive option for those looking for a unique living space. By understanding the standard layouts and dimensions, customization options, off-grid capabilities, and cost analysis, it is possible to build a container home that is both functional and beautiful.