| Construction Process |
| About Three Squared - Architect and Builder |
| Project | Ebeling House |
| Architect and Builder | Three Squared, Inc. |
| Containers | 6 |
| Area | 2,600 sf |
| Bedrooms | 3 |
| Bathrooms | 2.5 |
| Project Cost | $550,000 |
| Year | 2018 |
| Location | Bruce Township, MI, USA |
Description by Three Squared
The Ebeling House shipping container home is a unique hybrid construction utilizing both traditional lumber framing and shipping containers to create a spacious 2.5 bath, 3 bedroom shipping container home complete with open concept dining/living/kitchen, a home office, laundry room, a generously sized pantry, and an attached three car garage with a workshop.
Construction Process
About Three Squared - Architect and Builder
Three Squared, Inc. is a Detroit-based architecture and design firm whose revolutionary technology uses steel cargo shipping containers to build eye-catching and resilient mixed-use spaces, condominiums, and apartment complexes faster than traditional construction.
We help developers create luxurious structures whose design and style are only limited by imagination - not budget. Using our patented and patented pending industry leading technology and cut construction time in half. Additionally, the reuse of shipping containers cuts down on waste, saves trees and provides a superior thermal barrier to lower building ongoing energy costs providing a highly sustainable building option.
Benefits of building with shipping containers
- Faster building, cuts construction time in over 50% and reduces delays
- Sustainable and LEED certifiable
- Stronger and more durable construction
- Simplified project complexity and provides quoted prices, lowering change orders
- More energy efficient. Energy efficiency: reducing energy costs by up to 70%
- Meets all building & safety codes
Our team is best in class and offers in-house architectural design and full-service engineering. We manage projects from start to finish, navigating the Municipal Approval process at a 100% success rate... even in municipalities that have never approved this type of construction before. Finally, our fabrication team uses the many tricks of the trade we've learned over the years and proprietary information to source, prep, and modify these containers into exceptional buildings.
We work with developers looking to build a superior project while saving time, money, and participating in the biggest innovation in real estate of the last 100 years, while surpassing all building codes.
Pre-development Through Preliminary Site Plan Approval
- Site Visit
- Code Review
- Public Engagement Planning
- Preliminary Design Package
- Create Preliminary Timeline, Budget and Scope of Work
- Schematic Design
- Site Plan Approval
Design Development through Construction Documentation
- Design Development Including Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Engineering.
- Consult with City Municipalities, Client, General Contractor, Architect & Engineers to produce design and construction documents for permit submissions.
- Construction Documents
Shipping Container Modification, Erection, and Construction Administration
- Source containers
- Provide cut sheets
- Modify & prepare containers for delivery
- Manage supply chain and delivery
- Delivery and assembly of containers
- Provide consulting to all trades, support permit inspections and on-site design-build issues through issuance of Certificate of Occupancy
FEES
As an architectural firm, our fees are standard to the industry. We begin with a retainer for the design work completed within Step 1 of our process (listed below).
Remaining fees for Step 2 (Design Development and Construction Documents) and Step 3 (Construction) will be determined by the scope & complexity of your design from Step 1.
If you are serious about hiring Three Squared to help you move forward with your project, then we are happy to discuss these estimates with you ahead of time during a free consultation call with our team by filling out this contact form here.
Single Family Homes
| Desired Square Footage | Three Squared's Step 1 Retainer |
| 320 - 960sf | $8,500 - $9,500 |
| 960 - 1,280sf | $9,500 - $10,500 |
| 1,280 - 1,920sf | $10,500 - $11,500 |
| 1,920 - 2,560sf | $11,500 - $12,500 |
| 2,560 - 3,200sf | $13,500 - $14,500 |
| 3,200sf or more | $14,500 - $15,500 |
We follow a reliable three-step approach that guides your project through eight distinct stages. This method ensures smooth progress, on-time delivery, and excellent service — even for larger, more complex builds.
Step 1: Plan It – From Early Concepts to Preliminary Site Plan Approval
Phase 1 – Initial Planning
Before officially starting, we work closely with you to define the project’s goals, general scope, and early cost estimates. Once a preliminary agreement is in place, we schedule a visit to the site and conduct a general code and zoning review to identify any limitations or considerations.
Phase 2 – Conceptual Design
Here, we begin shaping your project with initial layouts and design options. We offer expert guidance and cost-saving strategies to optimize the plans. Typical deliverables include four exterior views, a floor plan, and two 3D renderings ready for printing, which you can use for community feedback, city planning reviews, or financing. We also update your budget and schedule, and we bring in any necessary consultants, such as engineers or additional architects, to support our in-house team.
Step 2: Draft It – From Detailed Design to Construction-Ready Plans
Phase 3 – Design Refinement
Once you approve the conceptual plans, we move forward with more detailed design work. The architectural and design teams will meet with you regularly to fine-tune floor plans, elevations, and material selections. We continue offering cost evaluations and bring in specialists in structural, electrical, and mechanical systems as needed.
Phase 4 – Construction Plans
With the refined design approved, we develop the official Construction Documents — detailed technical drawings required for permits and building. These include everything from foundation plans and structural framing to mechanical layouts, lighting plans, and room finishes. This step ensures your project meets all building codes and local regulations.
Phase 5 – Contractor Bidding & Shop Drawings
After permit approval, we finalize shop drawings and prepare a standard bid form for contractors. We’ll help gather bids from at least three qualified builders, manage the bidding process, and work with you to select the best team based on budget, quality, and experience.
Step 3: Build It – Construction Oversight & Project Completion
Phase 6 – Fabrication & Site Work
Once permits are secured and financing is confirmed, fabrication begins. This includes major site preparation, utility installation, and foundation work. If your project includes shipping containers, we’ll coordinate their cutting, reinforcement, and delivery. This is also the phase where the largest financial commitment typically occurs.
Phase 7 – On-Site Construction Support
During construction, we continue to support all teams involved. We help troubleshoot issues, provide design guidance on-site, and assist during inspections — all the way through to receiving the Certificate of Occupancy.
Phase 8 – After Construction
Even after construction is complete, we’re still here for you. We offer support with warranty inspections and any additional help you may need as you move into your new space.
| Address | 2541 Trumbull, Detroit, MI 48216, United States | |
| Phone | +1 877-297-2572 | |
| https://www.facebook.com/ThreeSquaredInc | ||
| Website | https://www.threesquaredinc.com/ |
More shipping container homes in Michigan:
| Luxury Shipping Container House, Royal Oak, Michigan |
Ebeling House - 3 Bedroom Shipping Container Home, Bruce Township, Michigan