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A shipping container used build a sturdy backyard retreat with cyclone-proof footings.
The project
Find a good condition container, transport it to my island, get an engineer to design cyclone-proof footings, get a crane to position it, design interior layout, find cyclone-proof doors and windows and get welder to install these and weld container to footings. Then paint interior, and source appropriate furniture, and get electrician and plumber to wire and plumb it. Wired it into a 10kw solar battery storage used by the main house.
Steps
Step 1
Find a reasonably priced container with minimal rust. Then arrange transport via ferry to Magnetic Island.
Step 2
Get engineer to design cyclone proof footings.
Step 3
Find a crane to put container in position, and time it so the cost of bringing the crane on the barge could be shared with other jobs on the island.
Step 4
Design interior layout. Decided to put shower outside (it’s FNQ so hot enough) to save internal space.
Step 5
Choose style, as this affects what furniture and appliances. Wanted something cosy so went with retro/granny-flat/Victorian with walls and shutters hand painted by a local artist. A butler's sink, high gloss solid timber furniture, retro lighting, teapot with cosy, and an antique chaise longe added to the feel. In first photo container door is open, but normally this is closed.
Step 6
Landscaped around it by adding plants and pavers with pebbles to soften its look.
Tools and materials
Materials used in the project:
- Shipping container
- Windows and doors
- Furniture
- Mondello concerto toilet
- Methven shower mixer.
More inspiration for your backyard studio project
Bunnings Workshop member Juliaz built a backyard studio and retreat on a galvanised subframe.
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