In a city where much of the architecture reflects its rich history, a groundbreaking new development is set to turn heads and inspire change. A lot owned by the Land Reutilization Authority (LRA) that has sat vacant since 1981 will soon be transformed into St. Louis City’s first shipping container home. This innovative project promises not only to revitalize a dormant piece of land but also to present a sustainable and affordable housing solution in the heart of Old North St. Louis.
A New Vision for an Old Lot
The home is being constructed at the intersection of 14th and Wright in the Old North St. Louis neighborhood, spearheaded by Travis Sheridan, the executive director of the Cortex-based Venture Cafe Global Institute. Together with his wife, Gina Sheridan, a librarian, they have partnered with local builder Zack Smithey, who has first-hand experience with shipping container projects after building his own container home in St. Charles.
The Sheridans’ enthusiasm for this project is palpable, as they currently reside directly across the street from the proposed development site. Their intention is not just to create a personal residence but to set a precedent for modern, eco-friendly living in an area that has seen its share of decline. To garner community support, they have reached out to local neighborhood associations and the district alderman to advocate for their vision.
Container Design: Innovative and Affordable Living
The upcoming home will utilize nine high cube shipping containers, each measuring 8’x40’. These high cube containers offer an extra foot of height, resulting in spacious 9-foot 6-inch ceilings, which are a significant upgrade from standard container homes. The overall design is substantial—boasting 2,880 square feet, it will include three bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, a generous second-story deck measuring 25’x13’, covered parking, and a small gallery space.
This project not only stands to be a testament to contemporary design but also aligns with the growing interest in sustainable living. Shipping containers are increasingly being recognized for their adaptability, durability, and cost-effectiveness. According to Travis Sheridan, utilizing shipping containers allows the custom home to be constructed at an impressively low cost of under $100 per square foot.
Overcoming Challenges and Regulations
The project is not without its challenges, especially considering the controversies surrounding container homes in nearby St. Charles, where construction regulations now impose strict guidelines, including pitched roofs and concealed container corrugation. Thankfully, St. Louis City currently lacks such regulations, providing the Sheridans with the freedom to design a more unconventional living space.
The creative vision is complemented by a solid team, including architect Steve Hollander and engineer Joe Strain, while general contractors Matt LaMora and Joe Bandalos will oversee the construction. Plans detail the retention and encapsulation of the existing wood flooring of the containers with epoxy, with interior walls framed and insulated using closed-cell spray foam, ensuring energy efficiency and comfort.
Looking Ahead: Community Impact and Future Prospects
The existing lot’s transformation is poised not only to give life back to a previously neglected space but also to stimulate interest in similar innovative housing solutions throughout the city. A hearing scheduled for January 30th will determine whether LRA will approve the sale of the lot. Following that, construction is expected to begin within a month, with an estimated completion date by June.
Despite the project’s ambitious nature, the Sheridans are keenly aware of the need for community buy-in. They have actively sought support from local leadership, reflecting a recognition that successful urban renewal must be a collaborative effort involving neighbors and city officials alike.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for St. Louis
The future shipping container home in Old North St. Louis represents a new chapter not only for the land it occupies but also for the community that surrounds it. As we look towards the developing trends in sustainable living, projects like this serve as a beacon of hope for innovative housing solutions. By turning to unconventional materials and designs, St. Louis is embarking on a journey toward revitalization grounded in creativity, collaboration, and community spirit.
The transformation of this vacant lot into a thriving family home could inspire further developments and reimagine urban living in a city known for its historical architecture while embracing the future. The Sheridans’ endeavor is more than just a construction project; it is a statement that we can build communities that honor both our past and our aspirations for sustainable living.
