How a creative vision became a real home
Designer Will Breaux transformed a long-held idea into a striking reality by constructing his own residence entirely from shipping containers. Set on McGowen Street in Houston, the home rises three stories tall and spans roughly 2,500 square feet, complete with a rooftop deck overlooking the city. Built from 11 containers, the structure stands as a modern example of how unconventional materials can be shaped into comfortable, livable spaces.
How taking control of the design made the difference
Breaux had imagined building his own home since the early 2000s, but finding professionals who could translate his vision proved difficult. Rather than compromise, he chose to step into the role himself. By studying projects he admired and refining his ideas, he eventually parted ways with a design team and began developing the concept independently around 2011. This hands-on approach allowed him to shape every detail according to his lifestyle and aesthetic goals.
How shipping containers became the ideal solution
The choice to use shipping containers was both practical and intentional. Breaux was drawn to their structural strength, durability, and natural resistance to fire and extreme weather. Although he did not have formal construction training, he committed time to learning the fundamentals of container architecture and created detailed 3D sketches to guide the build. Education, planning, and persistence became the foundation of the project.
How patience and planning turned effort into success
After years of research and hands-on work, the result is a fully finished home that balances creativity with functionality. More than a striking structure, the house reflects a lifestyle built around independence, problem-solving, and thoughtful design. Breaux’s project shows that with preparation and commitment, alternative building methods can move from concept to reality—proving that a dream home doesn’t have to follow traditional rules to feel complete.