The shipping container house for rent comes with a roof terrace and a garage door

There is a lively debate over whether housing made from shipping containers logic. After all, shipping containers were specifically designed to efficiently transport goods around the world and are not made for long term habitation.

That said, there are excellent examples of well made shipping container homes. This type of housing can be ideal for temporary or urgent living situations, such as give roofs to the homelessoffices or for pop-up shops, etc.

Shipping containers can also be turned into short-term rentals, as owners of desert rose ranch have done. Located on a 27-acre property near Johnson City, Texas, between the cities of Fredericksburg and Austin, this shipping container rental suite features a number of intriguing design ideas like a door wall of garage, as well as a roof terrace with an outdoor bathtub and suspended hammock.

We get a tour of this peaceful retreat in Texas hill country via YouTuber Levi Kelly:

The shipping container was converted by Bob’s Containers, an Austin-based company that specializes in custom shipping container homes. This particular unit is based on the company’s 40-foot-long Porter model, which features an enclosed bedroom and bathroom, as well as an open-plan kitchen, dining room, and living room.

Levi Kelly


From the outside, the shipping container has been painted in a sleek coat of black paint – probably not the best choice for passive cooling, because white would be better to reflect the heat of the sun’s rays. Either way, the roof is covered with a wooden deck, which helps, and more natural ventilation can be achieved by opening those large wooden garage doors.

Levi Kelly


As we enter through the glass front door, we enter the sitting area. There’s a custom-built minimalist sofa here, which merges both seating and a side table into a single surface. One can sit on the padded cushions for seating, as well as use the adjoining space to place books or drinks. It feels cozy and discreet, and thanks to the large window in the front door, we get plenty of natural light here.

Levi Kelly


On the other side of the living room wall, we have a generously sized bedroom which includes a queen-size bed and a natural wood dresser. The bedroom has a view thanks to the large window at the foot of the bed.

Levi Kelly


The dining area is quite simple and includes a wooden dining set with a round table and a pair of dining chairs. A round table saves space and facilitates circulation around it. Lots of sun can get in here, thanks to the large garage doors here, and the hanging horseshoes make for a nice ranch-themed decor.

Levi Kelly


The kitchen is divided into two areas that face each other. It’s relatively simple, but it has all the basics for cooking on vacation.

Levi Kelly


There is a large sink, two ring induction hob, kettle and retro style fridge. The warm-toned wooden cabinets were custom made by Bob’s Containers and offer more than enough space to store kitchen equipment and food, in addition to the space available on the floating shelves above. We love the pink color palette here, from the wood to the pearlescent tiles in the backsplash.

Levi Kelly


Just past the kitchen we have the bathroom behind the wooden barn style sliding door. There is a wall of glass that separates the rain shower from the toilet and a large sink mounted on a wooden vanity.

Levi Kelly


Back outside, and climbing a metal spiral staircase, we come to the spacious roof terrace. There’s a set of lawn chairs here, in addition to a small bar table and two chairs, perfect for lounging around with a cold drink.

There is also a nice outdoor tub for soaking. In keeping with the desert ranch theme, the tub is made from a completely refurbished recycled metal trough and its bottom is covered in colorful tiles.

Probably the sweetest surprise here is the stunning hanging hammock, which hangs over the side of the deck, allowing guests to sunbathe in the Texas sun.

Pricing for the Porter model starts at $134,325 according to Bob’s Containers (not including customizations and shipping), but a cheaper option is to experience this vacation rental instead. To consult the prices of a stay, go to Airbnb.

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