10 Must Know Costs of Shipping Container Homes in Kenya

Shipping container homes are quickly becoming a popular choice in Kenya, reflecting a growing global trend. Made from repurposed shipping containers, these homes offer a sustainable and budget-friendly alternative to traditional brick-and-mortar houses. From stylish Airbnb rentals to comfortable family residences, shipping container homes are redefining modern living and inspiring a new way of thinking about home design.

Why Build Shipping Container Homes in Kenya?

A recent video by Kenyan YouTuber Edna showcased ten stylish container homes, featuring wooden exteriors that add a touch of sophistication. The investor cleverly maximized the limited space by constructing a container shop that serves as a perimeter fence. This setup creates an inviting entrance leading to a reception area, along with a separate gate for access to the rental units.

These apartments boast numerous attractive features, including fully equipped kitchenettes, hot showers, high security, ample parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, washing machines for laundry, and cozy fireplaces. Edna describes the location as “a perfect escape from the weekday routine, offering a serene environment.”

The area between the container units is beautifully paved with ballast and adorned with potted plants, creating a peaceful atmosphere. At night, the compound comes alive with LED lights, enhancing its charm.

The interiors showcase modern, minimalist design. Each kitchenette is equipped with a two-burner gas stove, ample cabinet storage, sinks with running water, microwaves, and refrigerators. Adjacent to the kitchen, there’s a shower with a toilet and sink. Each unit also includes a cozy living space featuring a sofa, TV, table, and water dispenser, with a comfortable bed situated at the far end of the room. Guests can enjoy these luxurious amenities for KSh 2,200 per night

Advantages of Container Homes over traditional brick-and-mortar houses

Shipping container homes offer a number of advantages over traditional brick-and-mortar houses. Some of the key benefits include:

• Affordability: One of the main reasons people choose container homes is the lower construction cost. Containers are more affordable to purchase and convert than building a home from scratch using traditional materials.
• Eco-Friendly: Reusing shipping containers is a sustainable option that reduces waste. It helps lower your carbon footprint by repurposing existing materials rather than consuming new ones.
• Quick to Build: The process of converting a container into a home is faster than traditional construction methods, which means you could move into your new home in a matter of weeks.
• Durability: Shipping containers are made to withstand harsh weather conditions, making them incredibly strong and long-lasting.
• Flexibility: Container homes are modular, meaning you can easily expand or modify your living space by adding more containers or rearranging the design.

Shipping Container Home Costs in Kenya

Container homes can vary greatly in price depending on factors like size, design, and materials used. Below is a table that summarizes the typical price ranges for different types of container homes in Kenya:

House Specifications	Price Range (KES)
Bedsitter/Studio Apartment	550,000 – 750,000
One-Bedroom House	950,000 – 1,400,000
Two-Bedroom House	1,050,000 – 2,000,000
Three-Bedroom House	1,800,000 – 3,200,000
Four-Bedroom House	2,400,000 – 4,000,000

Factors That Influence the Price of Container Homes in Kenya

The cost of building a container home in Kenya is not fixed. Several factors play a role in determining the final price, including the location of the construction site, the design and specifications of the home, and the materials used for the interior and exterior finishes. Below, we explore these factors in more detail.

1. Distance to the Construction Site

The cost of transporting the shipping container(s) from urban centers or fabrication locations to the construction site can significantly affect the total price. The farther the distance, the more you’ll need to budget for transportation costs. Additionally, remote locations may require special transportation methods, which could further increase costs.

If your construction site is close to major cities like Nairobi or Mombasa, your transportation costs will be lower. However, if you’re building in a rural or remote area, these costs can rise quickly. Besides transporting the container, you’ll also need to factor in the cost of transporting construction materials, workers, and equipment to the site.

2. Type of Soil and Ground Conditions

The type of soil and ground conditions at your building site will directly impact the foundation requirements and costs. Different soil types require different levels of preparation and foundation work, which can affect the overall price of the project.

• Black Cotton Soil: This type of soil has a high water retention capacity and tends to swell when wet and shrink when dry. As a result, it requires deeper excavation (around 4 to 5 feet) for laying the foundation. The deeper the excavation, the higher the cost for labor and materials like concrete or pillars. Additionally, if the ground is uneven or sloping, more work will be needed to level the surface, further increasing costs.
• Red Volcanic Soil: On the other hand, red volcanic soil is firmer and more stable, with low water retention. This type of soil requires less excavation (2 to 2.5 feet deep) and is easier and cheaper to build on. If your site has flat or gently sloping terrain with red volcanic soil, you’ll save significantly on foundation costs.

3. Specifications: Size, Doors, Windows, and Layout

The design and structural elements of your container home play a huge role in determining the overall cost. Some common factors to consider include:

• Size and Type of Containers: The standard sizes for shipping containers are 20 feet and 40 feet. A 20-foot container provides 160 square feet of space, while a 40-foot container provides 320 square feet. The larger the container, the more space you have, but it also comes with higher purchase and modification costs.
• Doors and Windows: The number, size, and type of doors and windows you choose will impact the cost of the home. For instance, large glass doors or French windows are more expensive than standard wooden or metal doors. Additionally, opting for sliding windows or aluminum-framed windows can increase your budget compared to simpler wooden or steel options.
• Layout and Customization: Some designs may require cutting and welding multiple containers together to create more rooms, which adds to the labor and material costs. Homes with complex layouts, multiple stories, or unique designs will cost more than simpler, single-container homes.

4. Interior Finishes and Materials

Just like in traditional homes, the materials you choose for the interior walls, ceilings, and floors will affect the total cost of the project. There are several options to choose from, each with varying price points:

• Interior Wall Materials: Common choices for interior walls in container homes include gypsum boards, block boards, plywood, and soft boards. Each material has different properties, and the cost can vary based on quality and supplier availability. Gypsum boards, for example, are widely used for their smooth finish and insulation properties but can be more expensive than plywood.
• Flooring Materials: Flooring options range from basic cement to high-end ceramic tiles, vinyl, wood, and epoxy coatings. Vinyl and ceramic tiles are popular for their durability and aesthetic appeal, while wood and epoxy offer more luxurious finishes but come at a higher cost.
• Ceiling Finishes: The choice of ceiling material can also impact the overall aesthetic and comfort of the home. Options like soft board, gypsum, and wood planks are commonly used, with varying costs depending on the look and feel you want.

5. Structural Extensions and Additions

If you plan to add extensions such as verandas, staircases (for multi-story designs), or even a rooftop deck, these features will increase the total construction cost. Similarly, adding insulation, ventilation systems, and specialized roofing can add to the budget but improve the comfort and livability of the home.

Detailed Cost Breakdown by House Type

Now, let’s take a closer look at the specific costs for different types of shipping container homes in Kenya.

Bedsitter/Studio Container House

A studio or bedsitter container home is the smallest and most affordable option. These homes are typically built using a single 20-foot container, which provides enough space for a small bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, and living area.

• Cost Range: Ksh 550,000 – Ksh 750,000
• Size: 20 feet (length) x 8 feet (width) x 8.5 feet (height)

These homes are ideal for individuals, couples, or as guest houses, servant quarters, or holiday rentals. The small size makes them easy and quick to build, and they require less land space compared to larger homes.

One-Bedroom Container Home

A one-bedroom container home typically uses a 40-foot container, providing enough space for a bedroom, living area, kitchen, and bathroom. It’s essentially an expanded version of the studio apartment, with the additional room providing more comfort and privacy.

• Cost Range: Ksh 950,000 – Ksh 1,400,000
• Size: 40 feet (length) x 8 feet (width) x 9.5 feet (height for High Cube)

This type of home is perfect for young couples, small families, or as a retirement home.

Two-Bedroom Container Home

Two-bedroom container homes can be built using a single 40-foot container, two 20-foot containers, or a combination of both. These homes offer more space for families and come with flexible design options that allow for creative layouts.

• Cost Range: Ksh 1.05 million – Ksh 2 million
• Size: Typically a combination of two containers, either 40-foot or 20-foot

If you need additional space, you can also add a master en-suite bedroom or a small office to the design, making it perfect for modern, minimalist living.

Three-Bedroom Container Home

A three-bedroom container home is a popular choice for larger families or those who need extra space for guests. These homes typically use multiple containers, and the layout can include a living room, kitchen, dining room, and even verandas.

• Cost Range: Ksh 1.8 million – Ksh 3.2 million
• Size: Two 40-foot containers or a combination of smaller containers

With more space, you can create larger rooms, open-plan living areas, and outdoor spaces for relaxation. Three-bedroom homes are ideal for urban families looking for a modern, affordable housing solution.

Four-Bedroom Container Home

A four-bedroom container home is the ultimate option for large families or those planning for the long term. These homes are spacious, luxurious, and perfect for people who value comfort and additional space for hobbies or home offices.

• Cost Range: Ksh 2.4 million – Ksh 4 million
• Size: Three or more 40-foot containers

A four-bedroom home allows for a variety of room configurations, including master en-suites, home offices, libraries, gyms, or playrooms. This type of container home is perfect for those looking for a permanent, long-term residence.

Benefits of Choosing a Shipping Container Home

Shipping container homes offer several benefits that make them an attractive option for many Kenyans:

1. Affordability: Container homes are often cheaper than traditional homes, especially when it comes to labor and material costs. You can build a fully functional, stylish home for a fraction of the cost of a conventional house.
2. Eco-Friendliness: Repurposing old shipping containers reduces waste and minimizes the environmental impact. It’s a great way to build sustainably while reducing your carbon footprint.
3. Speed of Construction: Container homes can be built much faster than traditional homes. Once the design is finalized and the container is prepared, the actual construction can be completed in a matter of weeks.
4. Durability: Shipping containers are designed to withstand harsh conditions at sea, making them incredibly durable and weather-resistant. With proper insulation and maintenance, they can last for decades.
5. Modular Flexibility: The modular nature of container homes makes it easy to expand or modify the space as your needs change. You can start small and add more containers or rooms as your family grows.
6. Aesthetic Appeal: Container homes offer a modern, minimalist aesthetic that is becoming increasingly popular. You can customize the design to fit your personal style, whether you prefer an industrial look or a more traditional finish.

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