From Cargo to Cozy: A Shipping Container Tiny Home with a Rooftop Terrace

What began as a 6m x 2.5m cargo container has been transformed into a 258ft² (24m²) tiny home, designed by Portuguese architecture firm Madeiguincho. Now situated in Portugal’s Algarve region, this compact dwelling accommodates up to two people and balances functionality with thoughtful design.

Rather than disguising its origins, the home incorporates the best aspects of both a cargo container and a traditional tiny house. The original structure remains recognizable, but strategic modifications improve livability and efficiency.

The exterior includes practical features such as a front porch for outdoor use and a rooftop terrace, accessible via an integrated metal ladder. The architects selected cork paneling for the façade, blending the structure with its surroundings while also improving insulation. Inside, poplar wood paneling complements concrete flooring, creating a durable and minimalist interior.

The layout is straightforward and space-efficient. A raised bed provides storage underneath, an L-shaped kitchen maximizes work surfaces, and a dining area offers a compact but functional space for meals. A translucent-walled bathroom houses a toilet and shower, balancing privacy with natural light.

A notable feature is the retention of the container’s original doors, allowing for a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces when open. Combined with a porthole-style window and an arched entryway, these elements maintain the structure’s industrial character while adapting it for residential use.

It’s hard to believe this 258ft² (24m²) tiny home was anything but a tiny home. Madeiguincho transformed this former 6m x 2.5m cargo container into a tiny house for its occupants to settle into in the Algarve region of the south of Portugal. The charming tiny home has a front porch, arched doorway, porthole window, and a rooftop terrace.

The rooftop terrace is accessible via a metal ladder installed through the exterior ceiling. Occupants can easily watch the sun rise and set from this idyllic spot.

Madeiguincho wanted to ensure the tiny home blended in with its natural surroundings, so they installed cork panel exterior walls, which also provided insulation.

This tiny home’s unique design maintains the original cargo container’s industrial characteristics while maximizing its livability.

As you enter through the arched doorway into the living area, your eyes are drawn to the poplar wood panels on the interior walls. Madeiguincho also installed easy-care concrete flooring.

The tiny home’s bathroom is adjacent to the kitchen and living area. The toilet and shower are situated behind a translucent wall that offers privacy while still letting in natural light.

The sun-drenched living space has everything you need for practical everyday living. The L-shaped kitchen boasts all the essentials, including storage, an induction hob, a sink, and a fridge. Adjacent is a seating area.

While simple, the layout is entirely functional. It has a raised bed with plenty of storage space underneath.

The unique porthole window perfectly frames the sunset. It also opens to let in a breeze during the warmer months of the year.

The rear doors of the former cargo container are fully functional. On nice days, the occupants can open them to enjoy views and delightful weather.