The Project At A Glance
The Brief
Our private client in South East London approached 3J Services looking for an alternative to a traditional home extension. They wanted to create a dedicated outdoor studio that maximised the available space while offering a modern, high-quality finish. The available footprint was fixed at 12ft x 16ft, so every inch needed to be utilised effectively. Our client also had several key design requirements: an open, bright interior, a full glass elevation that would also provide access, and a bespoke exterior colour to complement the property.
The Challenge
The project required a completely bespoke solution. We needed to transform standard shipping containers into an attractive, functional studio without compromising on structural integrity or our client’s vision. After several rounds of discussions and refinements, we agreed on a specification that delivered exactly what our client was looking for.
Our Solution
Using two 20ft new (one trip) containers, our team:
- Cut each container down to 12ft while retaining the original cargo doors for practical access.
- Removed the opposite 8ft end panel and installed structural framing to accommodate full-height aluminium framed sliding doors, creating a bright, contemporary glazed elevation.
- Removed and reinforced one of the long side panels on each container so they could be seamlessly joined together on site, creating one open-plan internal space.
- Painted both units in oxide red RAL3009, a striking colour chosen by our client that gave the studio a distinctive, premium appearance.
Throughout the fabrication process, we kept our client informed with regular progress photographs, ensuring they could follow the transformation from start to finish.
Installation
Once fabrication was complete, our haulier transported the containers to site, positioned them, and our team completed the on-site joining process to create the finished studio.
The Result
The completed project delivered a unique, contemporary garden studio that met every aspect of our client’s brief. By combining expert container modification with bespoke fabrication, we created a spacious, light-filled environment that offers the functionality of a traditional extension with the flexibility and character of a container conversion. Most importantly, our client was delighted with the finished result. The completed studio is set to become a beautiful and practical addition to their home and they were very pleased.
