Those who have watched Game of Thrones can attest to the impressive building prowess showcased by the seven Kingdoms of Westeros.
From the formidable, ice-cold, and Stoney Winterfell in the North to the opulent, gold-patched Castorly Rock in the West and the earthy, sunbaked structures of Dorne in the South, each kingdom uses unique materials and styles to establish unique, defining architecture.
Even the Free Cities such as Volantis, Pentos, and Tyrosh strive to stand out as far as building and structure are concerned.
The architectural diversity in the show is a fascinating exhibition of innovation and sustainability as vital building components and housing as integral to human existence.
In 21st-century Kenya, affordable housing remains a crisis. Fortunately, technology and innovation have boldly stepped in.
Today, the container house fabrication industry offers innovative and sustainable housing solutions for millions who direly need the same.
The high demand for container homes lies in both their sustainability as well as the cost-effective fabrication materials used.
By repurposing robust shipping containers, builders significantly reduce the construction costs as well as timelines.
Container houses are complemented by the pocket-friendly, readily available materials such as gypsum boards for interior finishes, ceramic tiles for floors and polystyrene for thermal insulation, integral for Kenya’s varying climates.
Furthermore, this approach allows for quick construction timelines and reduced waste, making container homes a viable and increasingly attractive housing alternative for many Kenyans seeking quality and affordability.
In the spirit of innovation, we explore the common materials used in Kenya to transform shipping containers into homes, beginning with foundation preparation, container refurbishment, structural frameworks, interior finishes, and exterior cladding.
Foundation/Ground Preparation for Container Houses
Since shipping containers are strong and perfectly symmetrical, developing foundations for them is quite easy. The standard dimensions of both the 20ft units and 40ft units streamline the foundation setup process.
Kenyan Fabricators such as Premium Containers Limited use several approaches when developing foundations.
1. Concrete Slabs
This is a solid concrete base raised above the ground on which the container sits.
It is recommended that these are raised at least a foot (30cm) above the ground on sites with flat surfaces and even higher (up to 1m) in areas that experience seasonal flooding.
2. Concrete Pillars
These are block-like structures of concrete that rise above the ground, creating an elevated base for the container.
On red soil, the pillars are built to a depth of 2.5ft below ground using wooden boxes, reinforcing iron bars, binding wire, and concrete.
For other types of soils, such as the highly water-retaining black cotton, a deeper foundation of 4 feet below ground is recommended.
The recommendations for the height and dimensions of pillars should match those of concrete slabs.
In building construction, the foundation holds significant importance in terms of strength and symmetry since it sets the tone for the rest of the structure.
Builders must use appropriate amounts of cement to guarantee strength and longevity.
Additionally, the foundation must be precisely levelled to avoid tilt.
Materials Used for Container House Walls and Ceiling
1. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel tubes of 1-inch and 1.5-inch diameters are strategically welded onto container walls, ceilings, and partitions to create a framework for holding insulation materials such as gypsum boards.
Below are some of the insulation materials Kenyans use for the fabrication of container houses;
2. Gypsum Boards
Also referred to as Drywalls or Wallboards, they are made up of gypsum plaster plate that is sandwiched between sheets of tough paper.
Gypsum boards commonly come in dimensions of 4 feet by 8 feet (approximately 1220mm x 2440mm) with typical thicknesses ranging from 9mm to 12mm.
Apart from being light and versatile, gypsum is also sound absorbent and fire resistant, making it suitable for interiors of homes, offices, shops, schools, and hospitals.
3. Compressed Plastic
Compressed plastic comes in similar dimensions to gypsum.
It is made from recycled plastic, including bags, bottles, plates, and containers.
4. PVC Wall & Ceiling Panels
PVC panels are made using polyvinyl chloride, resin, and additives.
They are produced in various patterns, colors, and thicknesses for aesthetic and environmentally friendly building construction.
Their flexibility allows molding for specific applications on walls and ceilings.
Their hollow design provides temperature regulation.
PVC panels have high water and fire resistance, making them suitable for both public and private building solutions.
5. Wood for Walls & Ceiling
Wood is one of the most beautiful and environmentally friendly materials for interior and exterior finishes in container house fabrication.
6. Softboard
Softboard is a plant-based material created from compressed wood fibers, bound together with an adhesive called lignin.
It’s ideal for walls and ceilings since it provides temperature regulation in both warm and cold climates.
It also effectively reduces noise transmission between rooms.
What Materials are Used for Flooring Container Houses?
1. Tiles
In the past, tiles were crafted from glazed and baked clay.
Today, however, produced from a wider range of materials such as plastic, porcelain, glass, asphalt, and cement.
Depending on material, design, and production processes, there are different types of tiles that come in different colors, textures, shapes, and sizes.
The types of tiles available in Kenya include;
Ceramic tiles
Plastic Tiles
Glass tiles
Asphalt tiles
Asbestos tiles
Tiles are often among the more affordable flooring options, depending on the type and quality.
2. Vinyl Floor
Vinyl flooring, also known as PVC flooring, is made from polyvinyl chloride compressed with adhesives.
Its interlocking design makes it easy to install.
Similar to tiles, PVC pieces are available in various sizes, shapes, colors, and thicknesses.
3. Epoxy Spray
Epoxy spray coating, a durable and resilient material, is created by combining epoxy resin with a hardener.
Epoxy flooring is particularly well-suited for areas with heavy machinery due to its strength and longevity.
Furthermore, epoxy floors offer a glossy, vibrant finish and can be customized in a wide range of colors.
4. Rubber Floor
Rubber flooring is manufactured using natural rubber, synthetic rubber, or a combination of both. Natural rubber is derived from rubber trees, while synthetic rubber is produced from petroleum by-products.
Rubber flooring is well-suited for high-traffic and high-impact environments, including gyms, entertainment spots, decks and walkways, commercial spaces, playgrounds, and sports areas.
Container House Doors and Windows
Generally, the doors and windows used on container houses are similar to those used in concrete buildings.
Some cost-friendly materials used in setting up doors and windows include;
1. Steel doors
French doors and windows are built using steel frames, which provide support for glass panes.
Designs for both doors and windows vary. These can either be entirely steel or a combination of steel and glass.
French window designs include single-hung, double-hung, and casement.
Glass panes options can either be clear, one-wa,y or semi-transparent (frosted).
For enhanced security, both steel-framed French doors and windows are reinforced with either exterior or interior metal grills.
2. Aluminum Doors
Aluminum is a light and durable metal commonly used for door and window frames.
Unlike traditional French doors and windows that swing open, aluminum frames move either sideways or up and down.
Glass pane options include transparent, one-way, or frosted finishes.
For enhanced security and aesthetics, steel grills can be integrated into the door and window designs.
Kitchens and Kitchenettes
The kitchen is regarded as the heart of the home, the place where families bond through timeless conversations whilst enjoying sumptuous meals.
Simply, this is the space that knits the family together.
The general concept of kitchens and kitchenettes in container houses is similar to that found in traditional concrete houses.
Kitchens, like other house components, come in different types, sizes, and designs.
There are L-shape kitchens, U-shape kitchens, G-shape kitchens, one-wall/Straight Kitchens, and so on.
Each part of your kitchen will be made of different materials as indicated below;
The Kitchen Cabinets
Kenya’s house builders use either Medium Density Filter boards (MDF) or chipboard (also known as particle board) for upper and parts of lower kitchen cabinets.
MDF boards are made from wood fiber, wax, and resin, compressed into compact boards.
The surface of the MDF board is smooth and flawless, coming in different colors and patterns.
Chipboard, unlike MDF board, is made from a combination of wood chips, sawdust, and resin pressed under intense heat. It has a relatively coarse surface.
As regards costs, chipboard is slightly less expensive and hence more affordable for builders.
Kitchen Counter Tops
Most, if not all, of the kitchen work takes place on the countertop.
This is the space that accommodates gathering, chopping, and mixing of foodstuffs, drying of washed utensils, cleaning, and so on.
It provides a safe platform for the placement of appliances such as an oven, cooker, toaster, and blender.
Furthermore, it provides support for the sink and offers spaces for proper organization of kitchen equipment, hence enhancing hygiene and order.
Materials for kitchen countertops include the following;
1. Kitchen Tiles
Different types of tiles can be used to make kitchen countertops.
These are available in different colors, sizes, thicknesses, and densities.
Cost-wise, tiles are the most readily affordable countertop material.
2. Granite
It is made from a hard, rocky material called quartz combined with mica and felspar.
For kitchen tops, granite forms a shiny, organic appearance that enhances the general appearance of the cooking area.
Granite is significantly more costly than tiles.
3. Wood
Wood countertops, often referred to as butcher block, bring a warm, natural beauty to kitchens.
Like tiles, wood is one of the most affordable materials for this purpose.
Kitchen Sink and Tap
Sinks and taps are perhaps the simplest of fittings in the kitchen.
This is because they are easy to acquire and install.
There are many different types of taps and sinks based on design features, for example, single-bowl sinks, double-bowl sinks, and triple-bowl sinks.
Like sinks, taps are also categorized according to their features and functionality, for instance, mixer taps, pull-out/pull-down taps, sensor taps, bib taps, etcetera.
While taps and sinks are typically made from stainless steel, other materials can be used.
These features can be made from brass, plastic, enamel, compressed clay, granite, cast iron coated with steel, and copper.
Of these, stainless steel sinks and taps are the cheapest and most readily available.
The Bathroom in Container Houses
Within our homes, the bathroom is more than a utility feature. It is a sanctuary for privacy, a space where many forms of cleaning take place.
This is the one place in the home where personal hygiene and material hygiene occur. Most people hit the bathroom the moment they get home from a long and busy day outdoors.
As far as equipment and materials are concerned, the following are the various components that define a modern bathroom in Kenya;
1. Cisterns and Toilet Seats
Types: Cisterns can be visible (traditional) or hidden within the wall (modern and designed to save space).
Toilet seats come in various shapes and from different materials.
Materials: Cisterns are typically made from plastic (highly affordable and easy to manufacture) or sometimes ceramic, which gives a more traditional look.
Toilet seats are often made from plastic (polypropylene or urea-formaldehyde) for durability and ease of cleaning or sometimes wood with a protective coating to give a warmer feel to users.
For this equipment, plastics are the most readily affordable.
2. Showerheads
Types: Showerheads come in various types, including fixed overhead rain showers, handheld showers, and body jets.
We also have power showers that release water jets at a higher pressure.
Materials: The commonest materials include chrome-plated brass, which is highly durable and has a classic look.
Stainless steel showers are modern and corrosion-resistant options.
There are also the more budget-friendly plastic showers.
The internal components often utilize rubber or silicone nozzles to prevent a buildup of lime.
3. Hand Wash Basins
Types: Basins can be pedestal sinks, which are designed to hang to save space, or countertop basins, which sit on a vanity unit providing storage space below them.
Wall-mounted basins are also available and offer a minimalist aesthetic.
Materials: Ceramic is a traditional and widely used material since it’s durable and easy to clean. It is also the most pocket-friendly and most popular option.
Porcelain is also used, a type of ceramic that is manufactured at high temperatures, making it even more durable and less porous.
Other materials, such as acrylic and resin, have been used and offer a wider range of shapes and colors.
Glass basins provide a sleek and contemporary look, while stone basins (granite, marble) add a touch of luxury.
The Container House Bedrooms
In any home, the bedroom is a private haven, a space for rest, rejuvenation, and personal expression.
In our fast-paced lives, the bedroom serves as a crucial retreat, providing rest from the demands of the outside world and contributing significantly to our overall well-being.
As such, the importance of a well-designed and comfortable bedroom cannot be overstated.
It directly impacts our sleep quality, mood, and productivity.
Typically, some bedrooms are master es suited to comprise complete bathrooms, small libraries, home office spaces, and kitchenettes.
However, the two outstanding features in most bedrooms remain the wardrobe unit and the dresser.
Wardrobe Units/Closets
Wardrobe units and dressers consist of a series of shelves and cabinets for all kinds of clothes.
The clothes can either be hung on hangers or folded and arranged in the cabinets.
Dressers, unlike wardrobes, will have mirrors.
In addition to clothing, wardrobe units can also be used to store simple bedroom items such as electronics, documents, watches, ornaments, and bedroom decorations.
Many designs for wardrobe units and dressers are available, both lockable and unlockable.
They can be made using:
Wood: (either solid wood or plywood will do)
Industrial boards: (either Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Boards or Chipboard/Particle board)
Laminate: A decorative surface material that is designed with a variety of patterns, textures, and colors and can be applied onto existing surfaces.
Laminate is known to be easy to clean and resistant to scratches.
Metal (Steel or Aluminum): These are, however, extremely rare due to cost implications.
Generally, wardrobes and dressers vary in size and design depending on client’s needs and specifications.
It is important to note that these are significant additions to any bedroom since they add aesthetic value, make bedrooms livable, and provide space for personal belongings.
Premium Containers are Here to Build Your Dream Home
Premium Containers are your dedicated partners in turning your dream home into a tangible reality, right here in Kenya.
Whether you envision a cozy one-bedroom bungalow with a spacious and functional U-shaped kitchen, a stylish three-bedroom villa complete with elegant MDF wardrobe units adding a touch of luxury, or a grand five-bedroom Greek Revival farmhouse boasting luxurious master en suite bedrooms, we are fired up and ready to embark on this exciting journey with you.
We believe that building your dream home should be an enjoyable and fulfilling experience, perhaps even more fun than the work itself!
This is especially easy if you already have a clear vision of your ideal living space, down to the finest details. However, we understand that the process of designing and planning a new home can sometimes feel overwhelming.
If you find yourself unsure about design features or technical specifications, don’t fret. Our experienced team is here to guide you through every stage, from the initial idea to finally handing over your keys.
We are committed to helping you create and ultimately realize your dream home from scratch. Our collaborative approach ensures that your vision remains at the heart of every decision we make. We will work closely with you to understand your needs, preferences, and budget, offering expert advice and innovative solutions along the way.
This process, of course, entails everything from the initial design and material selection to the final touches and quality inspections.
We pride ourselves on transparent communication, careful attention to detail, and a commitment to delivering exceptional workmanship.
Our goal is not just to build a house, but to establish a home that perfectly reflects your lifestyle and aspirations. Let Premium be the trusted partner that brings your dream home to life anywhere in Kenya and East Africa. Karibu sana.