In an innovative move towards sustainable urban development, Christy Homar Design has recently broken ground on the first container homes in downtown Chattanooga. This groundbreaking project epitomizes a forward-thinking approach to housing, integrating repurposed shipping containers into the city’s fabric of architecture. By embracing the eco-friendly nature of these homes, Homar and her team aim not only to redefine living spaces but also to inspire a shift in the way urban dwellers think about sustainability.
The Concept of Container Homes
Constructed from repurposed shipping containers, container homes are gaining recognition for their robustness, environmental advantages, and mobility. Christi Homar describes them as reminiscent of “stacking Legos,” albeit on a larger scale. These units, typically around 40 feet in length and made from steel, weigh close to 9,000 pounds when empty. Their strength and durability make them ideal for creating safe and secure living environments.
Christi Homar: The Visionary Behind the Project
Growing up in a family filled with engineers, Christi Homar possesses a natural aptitude for architecture and design. With nearly 27 years of experience in the field, her work has been featured on prominent networks like HGTV, the Food Network, and DIY Network. Before embarking on this container home venture, Homar displayed a commitment to self-improvement by taking welding courses and securing her general contractor’s license. This hands-on approach allows her to personally oversee every construction element, from the foundation to the finest details.
Homar expresses her passion succinctly: “Architecture and building feeds my soul. It’s just the way my brain works.” Her dedication to the craft is evident in her comprehensive consideration of factors ranging from landscaping to interior aesthetics, a blend that promises to create harmonious living spaces.
The Vision for the Homes
The project features three unique homes nestled at the corner of Orchard Knob and 16th streets, just a block away from East Main Street. The two larger homes will each encompass 2,000 square feet and come equipped with elevators and three green rooftop courtyards. The third unit is slightly smaller, showcasing two green rooftops and a staircase, but still embodying the principles of sustainable design.
The green rooftops serve multiple purposes — not only do they enhance the aesthetic appeal of the homes, but they also contribute to energy efficiency. By cooling the buildings, purifying the air, and potentially lowering energy bills, these living roofs act as miniature gardens that foster biophilic connections between residents and their environment. “If we can repurpose, we are saving some trees,” Homar comments, emphasizing the importance of using existing materials to mitigate environmental impact.
A Broader Vision for Urban Housing
While this venture focuses on residential housing, Homar has aspirations that extend beyond the immediate project. She envisions container homes as versatile and eco-friendly solutions to broader urban housing challenges, including providing portable shelters and sanitation facilities for the homeless. Her long-term outlook illustrates a commitment to societal issues, leveraging her expertise to create inclusive living solutions.
Investors in the project, known as LHD Investments — including Deborah DiStefano, Carrie Limbacher, and John Limbacher — share Homar’s vision for sustainable living. Although the land could support up to five buildings, the team strategically chose to construct only three. “Just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should,” Homar wisely notes, indicating the trade-off between density and quality of life.
Navigating Challenges
Despite the numerous advantages of container homes, transforming shipping containers into livable spaces is not without its hurdles. Originally designed for the transportation of goods, these containers require significant adaptation to incorporate modern amenities such as plumbing, electrical systems, windows, and doors. These intricate modifications demand a high level of skill and creativity.
Groundbreaking for the Orchard Knob site commenced in November 2023, with plans for completion and sale of the homes by the end of September. The anticipated price range for these unique homes is between $600,000 and $1 million, a reflection of their distinctive design and commitment to quality.
Conclusion
Christi Homar’s container home project in Chattanooga represents a significant evolution in urban living, rooted in sustainability. With a meticulous approach to design, a commitment to eco-friendly practices, and a deep passion for architecture, Homar illustrates that innovative housing solutions are not only possible — they are essential for future urban landscapes. As Chattanooga embraces this new model, it sets a precedent for cities nationwide, demonstrating that sustainable living can thrive amidst the complexities of urban life.
