Designer Will Breaux turned his unconventional dream into reality by constructing a home made entirely out of shipping containers, an innovative design that has captured the imagination of architecture enthusiasts and sustainability advocates alike. Located on McGowen Street in Houston, Breaux’s one-of-a-kind residence is the result of years of personal vision and determination. The structure is composed of 11 shipping containers, which have been carefully arranged to create a unique three-story, 2,500 square-foot living space, topped with a spacious rooftop deck. What initially started as a far-off idea in the early 2000s eventually became a tangible, architectural feat, combining eco-consciousness with bold design.
Breaux’s journey toward building his dream home began with a simple but profound desire to create a space that was entirely his own. He had always envisioned constructing a home that was not just functional, but innovative and personal, something that would push the boundaries of conventional architecture. Yet, despite his clear vision, Breaux faced a significant challenge early on: finding someone who could bring his ideas to life. As he looked around for design teams who could capture his vision, Breaux encountered a number of setbacks. He explained on his blog that after working with a design team that failed to meet his expectations, he made the bold decision to take control of the project himself. “I began looking at projects that were being built that I liked,” Breaux recalled. “That’s when I realized that the home I wanted didn’t exist, so I started designing it myself.”
Around 2011, Breaux dove headfirst into the project, beginning the design process from scratch. Instead of following traditional architectural conventions, he drew inspiration from the principles of modern, sustainable design and the growing trend of using repurposed materials. Shipping containers, with their durability, modular nature, and availability at a relatively low cost, presented an ideal solution. Breaux recognized the potential of these containers not only as an affordable building material but also as a way to challenge conventional construction methods. By stacking and arranging the containers in various configurations, he could create open, adaptable spaces that would cater to his lifestyle and vision.
One of the most striking features of Breaux’s container home is its emphasis on open space and light. The structure is designed to feel expansive despite its compact footprint, a design principle often associated with minimalist and industrial-style architecture. The containers, each measuring 8 feet wide and 40 feet long, are stacked and arranged in such a way as to maximize natural light and airflow throughout the three levels. Large windows were incorporated into the design to create a sense of openness and connection with the outdoors. The use of raw materials like steel and concrete, along with the clean lines of the shipping containers, gives the home an industrial aesthetic that feels both modern and edgy.
On the interior, Breaux’s design sensibilities shine through in every corner of the house. The layout of the home is open and flexible, with each level designed to serve a specific purpose. The main floor is dedicated to communal living spaces, including a spacious living room, dining area, and kitchen. The second floor is reserved for private spaces, including bedrooms and bathrooms, while the third level is home to an expansive rooftop deck that offers breathtaking views of Houston’s skyline. The rooftop deck is a key feature of the home, providing both a relaxing space for entertaining and a retreat for quiet contemplation. With its minimal yet stylish furniture, greenery, and panoramic views, the rooftop deck has become one of Breaux’s favorite areas of the house.
Breaux’s choice of shipping containers also aligns with his commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly building practices. Shipping containers are often made from strong, corrosion-resistant steel, which means they have a long lifespan and require minimal maintenance. Repurposing these containers for construction reduces waste and the demand for new building materials, making Breaux’s home a model of sustainable living. Additionally, Breaux incorporated energy-efficient systems into the home, including solar panels and rainwater collection systems, to further reduce the environmental impact of his living space. The home’s design reflects his dedication not only to innovation but also to living in harmony with the environment.
As with any ambitious project, Breaux’s container home did not come without its challenges. One of the biggest obstacles he faced was navigating the complex building codes and regulations associated with using non-traditional materials. In many areas, including Houston, building codes are primarily designed with traditional construction methods in mind, which made it difficult to get approval for a container-based home. However, Breaux’s determination and ingenuity won out, and after working with local authorities and contractors who were open to the idea of using shipping containers as a building material, he was able to move forward with the construction.
The finished home stands as a testament to Breaux’s creativity, perseverance, and belief in the potential of repurposed materials. It is a space that defies expectations, blending modern design, sustainable living, and bold innovation in a way that few other homes can. The container home is not just a personal triumph for Breaux, but also a statement about the future of architecture—one where resourcefulness, sustainability, and design ingenuity intersect. In a world increasingly concerned with climate change and environmental responsibility, Breaux’s home offers a compelling vision of what is possible when we think outside the box—literally.
In many ways, Breaux’s journey with his shipping container home has inspired others to consider alternative ways of living and building. His project has sparked conversations about affordable housing, sustainable architecture, and the possibilities of repurposing materials that might otherwise go to waste. As more people become aware of the potential of shipping containers as a viable construction material, the concept of container homes is likely to gain traction in the years to come. For Breaux, what started as a dream has become a tangible reality, and his unique home on McGowen Street stands as a bold reminder that the future of architecture lies in innovation, resourcefulness, and a willingness to break away from tradition.
