Shipping_Container_Residence_Hero@2x

HO:ME 296

Design Challenge

How did the architects create a luxury, single-family container-based residence in Santa Barbara County that infused the owners’ distinct personalities?

Design Solution

HO:ME 296 captures the essence of AB design studio’s ethos of “inspiration through collaboration.” From concept to completion, the studio strategically maintained a collaborative relationship with key stakeholders at every level to realize this high-end, container-based dwelling in Santa Barbara County—the first of its kind to be permitted in the area.

Entrusting AB design studio with their vision, the owners—an environmental attorney and a fashion stylist—wanted a sustainable and elegant contemporary home that complemented their personalities and occupational passions. The result is a two-story residence, seamlessly integrating five reclaimed shipping containers, nestled into the lush Santa Barbara hillside. The upper level consists of four 40-foot containers that form the master suite and bedroom spaces, separated by a dramatic central stairwell and corridor with skylight. On an open first floor plan, the architects combined living spaces and kitchen to create a center of activity and area for entertaining. The space’s main focal point is an exposed 20-foot shipping container that was transformed into a pantry and scullery.

AB design studio worked closely with Barber Builders to ensure a timely construction process, and with Greens Landscape, Inc. to create a drought-tolerant landscape. The architects incorporated green strategies, such as photovoltaic and bio-retention systems, along with high life-cycle materials, including concrete and structural steel. Together with McFadden Design Group, the studio balanced the rawness evoked by eco-conscious elements against highly refined interior spaces featuring weathered oak-stained wood, minimalist finishes, and modern fixtures. Blurring the line between indoor/outdoor spaces is an expansive floor-to-ceiling, folding glass door system that opens up to showcase unobstructed views of an 85-foot swimming pool and sweeping canyon vista. 

Shipping Container Residence-2-south west elevation with pool and fire pit

Project Data

LOT SIZE
92,270 SF
PROJECT SIZE
2,345 SF
CONSTRUCTION COST
Withheld
LOCATION
Santa Barbara, CA
PRINCIPAL
Josh Blumer, AIA
PROJECT MANAGER
Paul Rupp, AIA
DESIGN TEAM
Clay Aurell, AIA | Josh Blumer, AIA | Robert Pester
GENERAL CONTRACTOR
Barber Builders
INTERIOR DESIGNER
McFadden Design Group
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT
Greens Landscape, Inc.
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER
Ashley & Vance
CIVIL ENGINEER
Ashley & Vance
ELECTRICAL ENGINEER
JMPE
TITLE 24
Inger Associates
Shipping Container Residence-3-living room with shipping container scullery
Shipping Container Residence-4-open kitchen and living room open to patio via large sliding door system
Shipping Container Residence-5-upper level hallway between shipping containers
Shipping Container Residence-6a-master bedroom hallway to en suite
Shipping Container Residence-6b-Master bedroom entrance froom hallway
Shipping Container Residence-6c-Master Bedroom
Shipping Container Residence-7-floor plans
Shipping Container Residence-8-exploded building material diagram
Shipping Container Residence-9-south elevation at sunset from distance
Shipping Container Residence-10a-hand rendered south elevation
Shipping Container Residence-10b-hand rendered west elevation
Shipping Container Residence-11b-hand rendered north elevation
Shipping Container Residence-11a-Hand rendered east elevation
Shipping Container Residence-12a-south elevation rendering over pool
Shipping Container Residence-12b-west elevation rendering
Shipping Container Residence-13a-south elevation rendering over pool
Shipping Container Residence-13b-east elevation rendering