The Brief
We were asked by an existing client to modify two new 10ft containers to create practical, purpose-built serving units for retail vendors in Bristol. The aim was to transform the containers into functional retail spaces, providing secure access, customer-facing serving hatches and essential electrical installations, while delivering a clean, professional finish.
The Challenge
The project required two compact containers to be adapted for commercial use, creating an efficient layout for serving customers while retaining the strength and security of the original container structures. Key requirements included installing wide serving hatches for customer service, providing secure personnel access, and creating a clean, insulated interior suitable for day-to-day trading. The units also needed durable flooring, practical electrical facilities and a consistent exterior finish to give both containers a professional appearance.
Our Solution
We carried out a range of modifications to both 10ft containers to meet the requirements of the retail vendors.
- Installed new front walls, removed the original cargo doors and fitted corrugated panels to accommodate the new layout.
- Installed one gas-strut-assisted serving hatch in each container, approximately 2.5m wide x 1.2m high, providing generous openings for customer service.
- Fitted one 10-point locking personnel door to each unit, providing secure and convenient staff access.
- Painted both containers in RAL5001, creating a consistent and professional appearance.
- Installed non-slip poly flooring over the existing 27mm plywood floor to provide a practical, hard-wearing surface.
- Lined and insulated the interiors with melamine, creating a clean, bright and functional working environment.
- Installed one light, two double sockets, a distribution board and a Commando socket in each unit to provide essential lighting and power facilities.
By combining these modifications, we transformed two standard new containers into dedicated serving units designed around the practical needs of the vendors.
The Result
The completed project delivered two purpose-modified 10ft container serving units ready for their intended use by vendors in Bristol. Each unit benefits from a wide, gas-strut-assisted serving hatch, secure personnel access, insulated and lined interiors, durable non-slip flooring and integrated electrical facilities. The RAL5001 exterior paintwork provides a professional finish, while the internal improvements create a more practical environment for daily trading. The project demonstrates how containers can be adapted into compact, functional commercial spaces, offering a tailored solution for vendors who need dedicated serving facilities in a space-efficient format.
