Shipping containers converted into attractive, affordable multifamily housing in L.A.

In the Watts neighborhood in Los Angeles, a new affordable multifamily housing project using shipping containers resulted in 24 micro-units for formerly unhoused residents, according to Fast Company. (View photos of the project here.)

The containers were acquired from a nearby port and converted into housing units at a factory. The modular construction approach reduced labor costs significantly. The cost of an affordable apartment in L.A. can run more than $700,000, while units at this project cost about $448,000, including the cost of land.

Each 320 sf apartment was made from two shipping containers. The 20-foot containers were joined together and include a kitchen along one wall, a bathroom, and space for a sofa that doubles as a bed. Windows were sized nearly from floor to ceiling, yielding extensive daylighting. Containers were also used to build community and laundry rooms, a unit for an on-site manager, and a room for bike parking.

Containers are not practical for many types of residential construction, often requiring extensive modification, but worked well in this micro-apartment setting.

A new $115 million project recently broke ground at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) that will add housing for 424 students at below-market rates. The 108,000 sf La Playa Residence Hall, funded by the State of California’s Higher Education Student Housing Grant Program, will consist of three five-story structures connected by bridges.

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