Granny flats

Why Build Container Granny Flats? 

Container granny flats give you more living space, whether you’re housing a relative in need of greater support, creating a holiday home for some extra income, building a teenage retreat or setting up a home office.

When you begin with a shipping container instead of starting from scratch, you make your life much easier. A shipping container granny flat already comes with a sturdy and solid base for you to build on. The construction process is not only simpler but also significantly more cost-effective compared to traditional building methods. It's a choice that could save you money, time and energy.

Plus, you might find there’s substantially less paperwork to fill in. In many regions across Australia, installing a shipping container comes with less red tape than building a whole new home. And, if you ever decide to move, you can take your tiny home with you.

A shipping container granny flat may be more convenient, but that doesn’t make it any less durable or comfortable. Shipping containers meet stringent wind and watertight requirements, plus they’re designed to be hard to break into. 

Since many containers come pre-equipped with electrical systems, it’s also easy to add a kitchenette, install heating and plug in your TV.

What to Consider When Building Your Portable Kitchenette

Turning a shipping container into a beautiful home requires careful planning. Think about how you’ll use the outdoor space. A patio, for example, can be an excellent addition to your portable kitchenette. Even a small one can double the available space for relaxing or entertaining guests. 

Layout planning is crucial in container granny flats, where every square inch counts. Clever solutions like vertical storage and multi-purpose furniture can make your tiny home both functional and aesthetically pleasing. 

No one enjoys a cold home, particularly during the chilly winter months. Pay close attention to where you place your heaters. Make sure they’ll be powerful enough!

Don't forget about the basic utilities: plumbing and electricity. Consider where you'll need outlets for appliances, how you'll supply water to the sink and shower, and how you'll manage waste from the toilet. 

3 Essential Tips for Container Granny Flats

1. Secure any necessary planning permission for your portable kitchenette before you begin building. It's always best to keep everything above board to avoid potential issues down the line.

2. Don't skimp on windows. They're vital for letting in natural light, making container granny flats feel airy and comfortable instead of cramped and unpleasant. 

3. Consider access to the portable kitchenette, especially if it’s in your own backyard. Will the inhabitants have to walk through your garden or through a separate gate? Will postal workers deliver packages to the granny flat or to somewhere else?

Which Container Should You Pick for Your Portable Kitchenette?

Picking the right shipping container is key to building your dream portable kitchenette. But how do you know which container to buy?

Start by considering size. 20ft containers create cosy container granny flats. You can fit a sofa-bed, kitchen and table in them, along with a toilet. A 20ft container is also compact enough to fit into most backyards while still leaving enough room for a patio and some plants. 

If you're after something roomier, however, opt for a 40ft container. It will allow you to create separate sleeping and living zones, in addition to the kitchen and bathroom. 

If you’re worried that you’ll feel cramped, a high cube container could be the solution. They're a foot taller than standard containers, offering a more spacious feel and extra room for storage.

Once you’ve decided what size you need, prioritise quality standards. Make sure the shipping container comes with a Pre-Trip Inspection (PTI) report, Convention for Safe Containers (CSC) report and wind and watertight (WWT) qualities. 

Some containers come with windows, although you’ll probably prefer to install them yourself based on your internal floor plan. You can also add electricity during the construction phase, but you’ll find it easier if the container comes pre-equipped with it.

Lastly, check your delivery options. Can you collect your container granny flat? And if not, can the supplier deliver it to you?

Let’s Create Your Ideal Container Granny Flat

Here at CBOX Containers, we have a wide range of shipping containers that are perfect for use as granny flats. And with flexible purchasing and leasing conditions as well as delivery options, you’ll be able to build your portable kitchenette at a budget that works for you. Get in touch to find out more.