Repurposing shipping containers into livable spaces has gained popularity over the past few years. With its affordability, durability, and eco-friendliness, it’s no wonder that more and more people are looking into shipping container apartments. Now, in Kansas City, the construction of Signal Hill Studios’ 48 shipping container apartment complex is nearing completion.
Unique Design
One of the features of these shipping container apartments is their design. At 360 square feet and equipped with all the amenities you’d expect from modern apartments (albeit in a relatively tight space), each apartment has a kitchenette, a bathroom (with a full-sized tube, shower, and vanity), and a modestly-sized living space¹. The studios also feature 9-foot high ceilings and large windows that provide natural light and city views. The 40 feet of front patio or deck outside really flesh out the 16-foot by 20-foot space nicely.
The developers have incorporated a minimalist design. 360 square feet isn’t a lot to work with, but the builders have described them as “sturdy” on the outside, yet “luxurious” on the inside².
You can see the listings here.
Affordable Housing in a Prime Location
The Signal Hill Studios shipping container apartments are located in the heart of the Crossroads Arts District in Kansas City. The area is known for its vibrant art scene, trendy restaurants, and unique shops. Near streetcars and crossroads in downtown Kansas City, the location is ideal for those who want to be in the middle of the action.
Another advantage of these shipping container apartments is their affordability. The studios were originally priced at $750, but inflation and the pandemic has brought their starting prices closer to $1,000 a month, still significantly lower than other apartments in the area. The developers hope that the apartments will help to address the need for affordable housing in the city.
Positive Reception from the Community
The Signal Hill Studios shipping container apartments have received positive feedback from the community. Many residents have voiced concerns about the population density rising quickly but have expressed interest in living in the apartments themselves. The acknowledgment of what this will do for affordable housing in the city has been lauded by builders and community members alike.
The Signal Hill Studios shipping container apartments in Kansas City are an excellent example of affordable living in a minimalist design. The unique, fleshed-out features of Studio Hill make their apartments shine despite their humble size. The affordable prices and prime location make them a more-than-desirable option for those who want to live in the middle of the city without breaking the bank, and with the positive reception from the community behind them, it’s safe to say that the Signal Hill Studios shipping container apartments have hit the ground running.
Keep Reading: A young couple turned a Coca-Cola truck into a tiny home on wheels and now live rent-free
Sources
- “Tiny space, big windows: Look inside Kansas City’s new shipping container apartments.” Kansas City. Eric Adler. March 7 2023.
- “Shipping container studio apartments nearing completion.” KCTV5. Nathan Vickers. March 9, 2023.
- “Signal Hill Studios.” Apartments