The Second Lives of Shipping Containers
Newsweek Europe|September 30, 2022
Shipping containers, currently in the midst of a major shortage, have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years when used to transport freight across oceans.
MEGHAN GUNN
The Second Lives of Shipping Containers

So what happens to these massive and durable structures after that? Often they're recycled into low-cost storage-other times they simply sit in docks around the world. Now, architects are finding new and improved ways to unlock their low-cost and sustainable development potential. From upscale vacation rentals to housing for the unhoused, wineries, ski lodges and sculptures, here are some ways former shipping containers are getting second lives. 

01

Sustainable Support System

LOS ANGELES

On land that was meant to become a men's jail, instead stands a 60,500 square-foot housing facility supporting unhoused people. The Hilda L. Solis Care First Village holds 232 units, as well as a common building with laundry facilities, dining areas, a dog park and spaces for counseling and case management meetings.

02

Performing Art

Cart MIAMI

The concept of the micro theater first began in Madrid, where audiences gathered to watch short performances in different rooms of an old brothel. In 2012, Microtheater Miami made its debut, hosting short plays in shipping containers. Step inside and watch one or all of the original 15-minute skits, presented in English and Spanish.

03

Urban Glamping

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK

This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM NEWSWEEK EUROPEView all
The Next Phase of War
Newsweek Europe

The Next Phase of War

After thousands of elite soldiers from North Korea joined Vladimir Putin’s forces against Ukraine, how has this latest move affected the conflict?

time-read
6 mins  |
November 29, 2024
Hey, Don't Be So SAD
Newsweek Europe

Hey, Don't Be So SAD

Seasonal affective disorder affects millions of people. Here’s how you can prep your body and mind for darker days

time-read
5 mins  |
November 29, 2024
America's Best CONTINUING CARE
Newsweek Europe

America's Best CONTINUING CARE

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES, RESTAURANTstyle dining, unlimited pickleball-an impressive number of amenities are becoming standard at Continuing Care Retirement Communities.

time-read
4 mins  |
November 29, 2024
NEW WORLD ORDER
Newsweek Europe

NEW WORLD ORDER

HOW LEADERS ACROSS THE GLOBE ARE REACTING TO DONALD TRUMP'S REELECTION AS U.S. PRESIDENT

time-read
10+ mins  |
November 29, 2024
My Fight for Equality and Justice
Newsweek Europe

My Fight for Equality and Justice

It will take more than just science to end AIDS. Inclusion, empathy and compassion are essential, too

time-read
3 mins  |
November 29, 2024
Saying No to Trump and Men
Newsweek Europe

Saying No to Trump and Men

The election has led some women to boycott relationships and sex

time-read
7 mins  |
November 29, 2024
Wendi McLendon-Covey
Newsweek Europe

Wendi McLendon-Covey

AFTER 10 YEARS OF PLAYING BEVERLY GOLDBERG ON THE GOLDBERGS, Wendi McLendon-Covey was not eager for a break. \"I need to go do a job where I can just throw everything at it and then come home totally exhausted.\"

time-read
1 min  |
November 22, 2024
'I'm the Highest Earner in Esports'
Newsweek Europe

'I'm the Highest Earner in Esports'

Johan \"NOtail\" Sundstein has won over $7 million but says, \"I don't really crave that status...I play for my own reasons\"

time-read
6 mins  |
November 22, 2024
AMERICA'S BEST Weight Loss CLINICS & CENTERS 2025
Newsweek Europe

AMERICA'S BEST Weight Loss CLINICS & CENTERS 2025

WHETHER IT'S FOR MEAL PLANS, PROFESSIONAL guidance or access to medications like GLP-1s, weight loss clinics can offer personalized assistance for those hoping to make sustainable lifestyle changes.

time-read
3 mins  |
November 22, 2024
AMERICA'S MOST ANTICIPATED NEW VEHICALS - 2025
Newsweek Europe

AMERICA'S MOST ANTICIPATED NEW VEHICALS - 2025

WHETHER IT'S A NEWLY IMAGined sport utility vehicle or the re-emergence of a highly regarded halo car, the vehicles coming to market in 2025 prove that Americans' attitudes about personal transportation are diverse and are being served from all angles.

time-read
10+ mins  |
November 22, 2024