Proposed Two-Storey Residential Container Home

Project Details

This project involves the structural design and engineering of a two-storey residential residence constructed from six shipping containers integrated with a comprehensive structural steel and aluminum frame. The structure features an overall footprint of approximately 40′-0″ x 48′-0″ and a total height of 19′-0″ from the first-floor line to the roof line. The scope of work required advanced engineering solutions for a complex assembly including W-sections (W14x22 and W12x30), HSS columns, and custom aluminum-framed roof trusses (6061-T6 alloy), all supported by a specialized reinforced concrete pier-and-grade-beam foundation system. The design process included a rigorous structural analysis using finite element modeling to ensure the home could safely withstand high environmental and seismic loads. All structural elements were engineered in compliance with the International Building Code (IBC 2021), ASCE 7-16, and AISC 360-16 provisions. Due to the project’s location, special attention was given to extreme lateral load resistance, with the structure designed for Seismic Design Category E and wind speeds of 92 MPH. The foundation system utilizes 24-inch diameter concrete piers extending 12 feet deep, tied together by 32″ x 20″ grade beams, designed to perform reliably under a soil bearing capacity of 1,500 psf.

Role

Structural Engineer/Designer

Services Provided

The scope of services includes the preparation of comprehensive structural calculations and structural drawings for the proposed container-based structure. Structural calculations shall include loading analyses for wind, seismic, snow, dead, and live loads, as applicable to the project site. The work shall encompass the structural analysis and design of all primary structural elements, including foundations; container-to-foundation tie-downs; container openings and required edge stiffeners; wood framing for infill walls and second-floor framing areas; beams, headers, posts, floor joists, and roof rafters; chords and collectors; shear and braced wall systems; and all required connectors. Structural services shall also address container module modifications, including the design of perimeter ring beams, lintel frames at large window and door openings, corrosion protection and welding notes, and uplift and overturning checks. Diaphragm and drift analyses will be performed, including deck diaphragm tie-ins, chord and collector design, and holdown sizing to ensure a continuous and code-compliant load path.

Structural drawings shall include a Foundation Plan indicating container pedestal and/or grade-beam layout with anchor bolt and tie-down schedules; a First Floor Framing Plan (if a crawlspace condition exists) or slab notes with wall and holdown layout; a Second Floor Framing Plan; and a Roof Framing Plan. The drawings will also provide First and Second Floor Shear Wall Layout Plans, longitudinal and transverse building sections, and typical structural details and specifications. Details shall include container cutout reinforcement, container-to-wood interface connections, balcony and deck ledger attachments and post base conditions, as well as general structural notes necessary for construction, permitting, and plan review.