Living in an eco-friendly home, made from recycled containers is a fun and fulfilling experience that blends sustainability with modern living.
The use of repurposed shipping containers not only reduces environmental impact but also creates a world of creativity and innovation in home design.
Container homes are common these days, but only a few are considered as “luxury.”
In a property in Index, Washington, a man named Nick built a luxurious eco-friendly home that is made of sea containers.
Nick and his wife purchased the property in 2010, spanning about six acres.
The original idea was to find a place for skiing and river activities during the summer—a retreat to connect as a family and enjoy nature.
Nick’s family now has six small cabins on the property, and in 2017, they started sharing them on Airbnb.
After completing the tree house, Nick started the Sea Container Cabin project, an eco-friendly home.
The recycled containers used were manufactured in 2007. It has some dents from their previous life of transporting goods.
However, Nick believes the uniqueness and distinctiveness make it worthwhile for his family, friends, and short-term rentals.
The eco-friendly home has two 40-foot High Cube containers.
They were cut in half, creating two 20-foot containers on the lower level and a 40-foot cantilever about 12 feet on each side.
The strength of the recycled containers allows for this cantilever, creating a covered entry.
The locking mechanisms on the front mimic a traditional shipping container, with handles welded for aesthetics.
To preserve the trees on the site, Nick opted for a segmented foundation to save its roots.
They used closed-cell spray foam insulation to prevent condensation and moisture problems.
The containers were pre-cut for doors and windows, with frames welded around them.
For a special touch, the exterior features a unique rooftop hot tub that uses solar panels and gas for heating.
The entire building process took approximately six months, from container delivery in September to hosting the first guests in March.
Nick acquired three recycled containers for $12,000 and spent a total cost of around $250,000.
Going inside the eco-friendly home, its design is like a ski cabin, with old skis serving as a decorative touch.
The open floor plan includes a kitchen, living room, and dining area.
An electric fireplace adds a contemporary look, paired with unique lighting solutions using LED strips hidden in channels.
The kitchen boasts dark colors, with a Lava Rock theme, featuring Basalt tiles and recycled Paper Stone countertops.
The absence of a traditional oven and dishwasher is compensated for by a two-burner cooktop and a convection microwave oven.
The kitchen features the view of a 110-year-old fir tree that creates an amazing view while washing dishes.
The container home is heated and cooled using a mini-split system.
A downstairs powder room features a spa toilet, Paper Stone countertops, and a floor-to-ceiling window.
The backyard includes a covered porch, barbecue area, and fire pit zone.
A standout feature is the one-of-a-kind staircase with LED lights on each step. The metal pieces were sourced from Everett Steel, creating a strong yet elegant design.
Upstairs, there are two bedrooms, each with a toothbrush sink, mirrors with dimmable features, and sustainable cork flooring.
The guest bedroom includes a short queen bed and a skylight for a forest view.
The eco-friendly home’s master bedroom, slightly longer, features the same cozy bed and a skylight.
Both bedrooms share a common bathroom with a steam shower, lava rock flooring, and a unique Basalt strip.
To fully enjoy the steam shower and hot tub, you can turn on the steam for a few minutes before hopping in.
This truly is a ski cabin, located 30 minutes from Steven’s Pass, providing a perfect retreat after a day of skiing.
Take a tour inside Nick’s eco-friendly home by watching the video below: