While shipping container homes and elderly people aren’t usually related to each other, the concept of container homes for seniors is an exception. Much like how container homes can be child-friendly in terms of design, container homes can be livable for the elderly too.
Furthermore, with the right design and features, container homes for seniors aren’t just seemingly a fad and can be some of the best places to live for them to spend their days.
Why Shipping Containers for Senior Housing?
The common benefits of shipping containers are a special combination of cost, toughness, and versatility. They provide a great foundation for homes that can resist many climate patterns because they are made to tolerate harsh circumstances. The following are the main benefits of using shipping containers:
- Cost-effectiveness: Compared to conventional building materials, containers are substantially less expensive. Depending on size and condition, they can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 per unit.
- Durability: Constructed from sturdy steel, containers are made to withstand inclement weather and, with proper care, can last for decades.
- Sustainability: Converting a shipping container into a house saves trash and offers a greener way to live.
- Fast construction: Container homes may be built quicker than regular homes with a few adjustments, making them perfect for senior housing projects with considerable deadlines.
Even when compared to regular nursing homes, these benefits can convince home builders to construct container homes for the elderly.
How to Design Container Homes for Seniors
Container homes for seniors in general have the same design and feature criteria as nursing homes. However, since shipping containers are the foundations of these converted homes, some design criteria can be different than regular homes.
Permits and Zoning Regulations
Check your area’s zoning and building codes before beginning container home projects. Rules governing container homes may differ from those governing standard homes in your area. Most likely, you’ll need to:
- Obtain permissions for construction.
- Respect the rules for plumbing, electricity, and foundations.
- Make sure the container is structurally sound for residential use.
To fulfill the legal requirements, it is advisable to contact an architect or contractor with experience building container homes.
Accessibility
Accessibility is crucial when building a container home for senior citizens. The main objective is to design a living area that solves mobility issues that many elderly people encounter. Important elements to add are:
- Large doors: Make sure doors are large enough to fit walkers and wheelchairs. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) suggests a minimum clearance of thirty-two inches.
- Ramp access: Create ramps with non-slip surfaces because containers are situated many feet above the ground. Handrails provide additional support and a gradual slope for ramps.
- Open floor plans: Seniors may find it challenging to maneuver across small areas. You can make your living space more open and easier to navigate by knocking down any internal walls that aren’t necessary.
- Non-slip flooring: To avoid falls, flooring must be resistant to slips. Rubber or vinyl flooring can offer a non-slip, cushioned surface that is also simple to maintain.
Insulation and Climate Control
Being metal boxes, shipping containers can get extremely hot or cold during the summer and winter. Seniors, who could be more susceptible to severe temperatures, need proper insulation to maintain a comfortable indoor environment.
- Spray foam insulation: Offering both thermal and moisture barriers, this is one of the best types of insulation for container houses.
- Reflective floor coatings: Applying a reflecting coating to the container’s outside can help lower heat absorption and keep the interior cooler during hot weather.
- HVAC systems: Make sure the house has effective HVAC systems in place to keep the interior temperature constant. Owing to their energy economy and small size, split-system air conditioners and ductless heat pumps are common choices for container homes.
Maximizing Space
Standard dimensions for shipping containers are 20 or 40 feet long and 8 feet wide. In order to maximize space within these limitations, inventive interior design is needed. The following advice can help you make the most of the available space while meeting the demands of senior citizens:
- Modular furniture: To reduce room when not in use, think about utilizing foldable or modular furniture. Foldable dining tables and Murphy beds can free up precious floor space during the day.
- Built-in storage: Built-in shelving, drawers, and cabinets provide for maximum storage without taking up space in the living room.
- Natural light: A room might feel less cramped and more open with large windows and skylights. Insulation can also be improved by installing double-pane, energy-efficient windows.
- Low countertops and shelving: To reduce the frequency with which elders must stretch or stoop, place counters and storage within easy reach.
Safety Features for Senior Living
When building homes for elders, safety comes first. In addition to accessibility, think about incorporating the following security elements to guarantee a safe living space:
- Bathroom grab bars: Place grab bars in the shower and next to the toilet to help elders when they most need them.
- Non-slip surfaces: Make sure that the surfaces in the kitchen and bathrooms are made to lessen the chance of slipping in addition to having non-slip flooring.
- Smart home technology: Install smart home appliances such as medical alert systems, voice-activated assistants, and motion-activated lights. These can provide elders with increased independence and peace of mind for their loved ones.
- Fire safety: Make sure the house has carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and smoke alarms. Given the metal construction of the container, adequate ventilation is also necessary to prevent the buildup of dangerous gasses or heat.
Adding Personal Touches
Customizing the design to fit the occupant’s tastes and lifestyle is one benefit of turning a shipping container into a house. Adding unique details can make the room feel cozier and more inviting to senior citizens. Among the concepts are:
- Custom external finishes: There are several methods to finish the outside of a container home, ranging from wood siding to green walls with climbing plants. Seniors can have a low-maintenance outdoor space for activities and relaxation with a raised bed garden.
- Large windows for natural views: Install glass doors or floor-to-ceiling windows to let in natural light and offer peaceful views of the surroundings. This is especially advantageous for elderly people who live mostly indoors.
- Accessible gardens: Seniors can enjoy gardening without the physical effort by incorporating raised garden beds or easily accessible containers into the design.
Conclusion
Container homes for seniors are wonderful living spaces that can match regular nursing homes’ ability to accommodate the elderly’ needs. By asking experienced shipping container vendors like Tradecorp, designing these container homes is an easy feat. Contact Tradecorp today by filling out our quote form to find the convertible container to design these homes!