What if downsizing your home didn’t mean giving up comfort or style but instead opened the door to a simpler, more fulfilling life? That’s exactly what a family of five in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, discovered when they transformed two 40-ft shipping containers into a stunning off-grid home.
Trading Excess for Intentional Living
Matt and Ilse, along with their three kids, didn’t start their journey with dreams of container living. In fact, their previous home was the polar opposite: a sprawling five-bedroom property complete with a pool, tennis court, and seemingly endless lawns. However, maintaining the large estate quickly turned into a chore that consumed all their time and energy.
“It felt like we were working for the house, not living in it,” Ilse admitted. With three small children vying for their attention, the couple realized they wanted something simpler. The spark for their transformation came when Ilse stumbled upon Living Big in a Tiny House, a YouTube channel dedicated to minimalist living. Inspired, they set out to reimagine home life on their own terms.
Building a Dream with Shipping Containers
The couple purchased two used shipping containers in excellent condition, which were carefully refurbished and customized to their needs. Both Matt and Ilse, experienced engineers and co-owners of Otto Engineering, had the skills to transform steel into a cozy haven.
The containers were stripped, welded, repainted, and insulated. Inside, they used sleek, varnished plywood to create a warm, inviting aesthetic. Hidden storage units cleverly integrated into the walls made the most of every square inch.
A Thoughtful, Functional Design
While the containers appear modest from the outside, the interior design is a masterclass in efficient and beautiful living. The home includes:
- Foyer/Mudroom: A small but highly functional entryway with hidden cabinets for shoes, coats, and outdoor gear.
- Open-Plan Living Area: A large lounge flows into a kitchen designed to accommodate multiple cooks at once, complete with a spacious worktable, embedded appliances, and smart storage.
- Children’s Shared Room: Ingeniously split into two levels. The younger boys share the ground floor with built-in beds and storage, while their older sister has a cozy upper-level nook.
- Master Bedroom: Located in the “penthouse” of the container, featuring a slanted roof for extra headspace and a minimalist, peaceful vibe.
- Japanese-Style Bathroom: Equipped with a composting toilet, sawdust cover system, and ventilation to keep things odor-free, as well as a shower and vanity.
Living Off the Grid
One of the most impressive aspects of the home is its self-sufficiency. The family installed an 18-panel, 6kW solar power system that generates more than enough electricity. Their water needs are met by a borehole pump, making them completely independent of municipal utilities.
“It feels liberating,” Matt shared. “We’re essentially disconnected, and it works beautifully.”
A New Kind of Luxury
By downsizing, the family reclaimed not only their time but also their peace of mind. The spacious deck extending from the lounge offers a perfect spot to relax, while the children spend their days exploring the outdoors. This minimalist lifestyle has allowed them to focus on what truly matters: spending time together.
This transformation serves as a reminder that bigger isn’t always better. With creative thinking and a commitment to sustainable living, this family turned two humble shipping containers into an extraordinary sanctuary.
Sometimes, less truly is more.