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Container Studio by MB Architecture
New York studio MB Architecture have completed an art studio in the woods made of two steel shipping containers in Amagansett, New York.
![](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2010/05/dzn_MB-ARCHITECTURE-2.jpg)
Called Container Studio, the structure features two containers positioned next to each other on a foundation wall, within which a basement has been created.
![](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2010/05/dzn_MB-ARCHITECTURE-3.jpg)
The height of the space was increased by cutting away most of the floor of the containers, connecting them with the basement space beneath.
![](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2010/05/dzn_MB-ARCHITECTURE-4.jpg)
Above photograph is by Francine Fleischer.
Glass façades seal the containers at either end.
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Photographs are by Dalton Portella unless otherwise stated.
Here's some information from the architect:
Art Studio - Amagansett, NY
The client needed an art studio close to her house (which we renovated in 2008).
![](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2010/05/dzn_MB-ARCHITECTURE-6.jpg)
Above photograph is by Francine Fleischer.
Her requirements were for a space of about 700 sf and a stringent budget of $60,000; and for a simple structure that would be both inviting and reflective.
![](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2010/05/dzn_MB-ARCHITECTURE-7.jpg)
Above photograph is by Francine Fleischer.
Our solution was to use two 9’-6” x 40’ x 8’ shipping containers (cost: $2,500 each, delivered) perched over a 9’ foundation wall/cellar.
![](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2010/05/dzn_MB-ARCHITECTURE-8.jpg)
Above photograph is by Francine Fleischer.
By cutting 75% of the floor of the containers, we were able to move the painting studio to a lower level via a wide staircase and take advantage of a high ceiling.
![](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2010/05/dzn_MB-ARCHITECTURE-10.jpg)
The staircase itself acts as a transitional space for viewing art work.
![](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2010/05/dzn_MB-ARCHITECTURE-20.jpg)
The upper floor provides a more intimate work area and a sitting area.
![](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2010/05/dzn_MB-ARCHITECTURE-21.jpg)
The containers were painted dark charcoal to maintain continuity with the original house and to recede in the shadows of a dense wooded site.
![](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2010/05/dzn_MB-ARCHITECTURE-11.jpg)
The total area of the studio is 840 sf and the final cost was $58,000.
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See also:
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