Architect Damien Chwalisz’s first foray into working with shipping containers was extreme.

It was a CBD residential project that involved creating two towers of containers – each four storeys high – joining those towers along the long edge, and setting it all on a tiny block in the middle of the city.

“Using the containers in this project was as much about exploring the possibilities of this construction method as it was about the process of construction,” says Damien.

“We were operating in a small side street in the city on an extremely small site. It was important that there were not long road closures, and it was good for the project that much of the construction could be done in the work shop – off site in controlled conditions. From there we were able to essentially erect a four-storey structure in three days.”

Despite the intensity of this introduction to the form, Damien became fascinated with the potential of the containers. Working with Archspace Construction and Landscaping, they have since become a regular part of his practice.

“Our subsequent adventures into this type of architecture have been significantly more humble in size and scope but no less interesting,” says Damien.

“We have now designed and built a range of container conversions from bathrooms and kitchen to bedrooms, offices, art studios and lounging spaces.”

While container conversions are not unique to Damien and his architectural practice, his heavy emphasis on the custom nature of the adaptations as well as a strong environmental bent set his work in the area apart.

“The idea is that we meet the client, design a container space specifically for them, and build it to the budget that they have, rather than have a range of products that they can select from ‘off-the-shelf’,” says Damien.

“We also incorporate a lot of recycled and repurposed material into these structures. This can keep cost down, add texture and interest and is also a good way of responsibly handing the proceeds of so much demolition that is happening in Adelaide at the moment. Everything from glass to steel and especially timber is re-used in the structures we create.”

The proof of Damien’s interest in and aptitude for the use of containers is in his personal adoption of one. Up on his block of land in Adelaide’s foothills sits his own adventure in shipping container living.

Barely recognisable as a shipping container structure, his space – which he uses as a hub for parties and events, or as a place to make a few coffees, drink a couple of beers or to occasionally campout in – has been wood clad and also augmented with an awning that Damien says “helps create shade and extend the interior space”.