The idea of a "kit" is really intriguing, like the Sears Packaged Homes of the 20's & 30's. Perhaps with local sources to lower the cost of freight. I am really taken with this particular plan.

The overhang structure is deceptively strong. See built prototype on our office here: http://www.lamidesign.com/images/workimages/9977/9977_01.JPG This has been in place for 5 years through winters, wind storms, and all kinds of weather. It has not budged. Never the less if you are in a coastal area the structure should be reviewed. Regarding the foundation, this particular design indicates a pier foundation with a deck and porch over it.

I am was working to the CABO residential code, and now to the International Residential Code - following the adopted codes in my region. Without going off to check the WA state web site I can't say off the top of my head which model code is adopted in WA, but I suspect it is the IRC or the UBC. The codes are very similar and I suspect my designs will be fine, but as always you should confirm issues of snow loading, wind, and seismic loading as they pertain to your local or the particulars of your site. This is the case with any catalog house plan.

Shirely, I think you can get a permit with my plans in Texas, but its always best to speak to your local building department and see if they have any issues with catalog plans. Other than that its just a matter of being diligent about your project. If you are in a coastal area you will want to have the plans checked locally for criteria related to wind forces, if the soils are know to have poor bearing capacity where you build you need to have the foundation design checked. Related to that - some of my designs are documented with basements. I understand that basements are rare in Texas so you may want a slab or a crawl space instead.

I just finished the construction drawings for the 0380 Cube House, so its ready to go.

and Wes, you are a keen observer. I wish I had more time to prop out the models thoughtfully, but I try to have fun with it when I do it.

Robert - look at all the plans on the web site. There are several that are under development with ground level bedrooms. If you would like more info on any of them you an email me and I'll fill you in.

Sometimes I feel like I'm not making enough accomodation for things like laundry and other real-life issues. In my life we are busy - laundry stacks up. I don't know how you can live with a laundry closet in the hall. I know some people are super organized - more power to you if you are.

My house plans may share a modern spirit with the Dwell House but a closer examination shows they are quite different. They are working to dimensions common in the modular housing industry because they are built off site - 15-16ft wide at the most. My designs that are long and thin, the 0242 Plat House and the 0357 Steel Case House are both 18ft wide - impossible for modular construction. That extra 2ft creates a world of possibilities for how you can organize a plan. The cost is another issue. They are making a very nice house, with nice materials and products incorporated. The modular home industry for the most part is building with vinyl siding, asphalt shingles, wall to wall carpet and vinyl windows. A modern modular won't match the prices in the modular home industry unless it adopts the same palette of materials. Those cheap modular houses are just as spare as a minimalist modern house. If you want to make a comparison to an ornate traditional house then you will see a cost advantage on the basis of simplicity, but that kind of traditional house will not be inexpensive. And neither will a modern house of nice materials. This is really such a big issue, to big to discuss here. If you want to read more about it look at www.livemodern.com and www.fabprefab.com It has been discussed before. And btw they did not steal the idea of a storage wall from me, nor can I take credit for inventing this! Its something that you see in many architect designed houses.

The same plans have been posted for some time, when can we see more? Why is the 60/40 plan hard to reach from your site? Is it because it's prefab?

Greg, I can't believe you have the time to accomplish so much and still respond so graciously and intelligently to so many comments--I've been lurking on livemodern for half a year now, keeping quiet, and I don't know how you do it all. But to my point--I dream of building a modern house in a several years (for me, my husband, and now 18 mnth old daughter)and find your stock plans interesting, as well as the 6040 house (particularly that smaller version you may be developing in the future). I have one issue with the usual modern "living space," however--the exposed and visible kitchen. An elevated seating bar doesn't do enough to hide the flotsam and jetsam of cooking. How about a screen/bookshelf, designed by the architect to fit into and enhance the flow of the living/kitchen area? You understand the challenges of the laundry room--thought you might have some good ideas for mitigating the kitchen chaos factor.

my husband and i have been researching modular options for our lakeside property in south georgia. i admit that i am overwhelmed by all that is out there- but i am truly enamored by your porch house. because of our semi tropic climate- the CHRC in Atlanta suggested that houses constructed of SIP's for the exterior walls, concrete floors and stairs, and polycarbonate panels for windows in order to minimize construction costs and maximize longevity of the structure. Could these elements be used to build the porch house? Also, could portions of the downstairs be easily enclosed with glass so that HVAC could be used down there?

Laura, the construction elements you mention can be used in these houses. SIPs, concrete slab floors, poly carb panels are all things you can use to complete the houses. The lower level of the Porch House could be made into conditioned space if that is the way you see yourself using it. All glass would be a challenge for any cooling system, but exterior roll up shutters could allow you to control the sun before the heat entered the house. Also cellular poly carb panels like PolyGal allow light with better insulation values than glass. It also creates an obscuring panel rather than a completely transparent window wall. Things to consider. Mariah - You would need to have the design reviewed by a local architect and structural engineer. All of the construction products indicated are US standards and you will need to determine the proper AU stand-ins. An engineer will need to determine what reinforcements need to be made for your local wind conditions.

I am working on designs for container based housing right now, but these will not be sold as plan sets, but as actual modified containers. Read my outlook on the state of the use of containers for housing here: http://www.livemodern.com/Members/lavardera/lamidesigndevblog/HGM-IBUintro

my email address is dillforce@hotmail.com if there is any one with some info,, i need some plans to take down to the county to get to work,,

Do you currently have any narrow-lot (house needs to be 15ft wide)plans available?

I am wondering how your design would work in southern california where earthquakes are common. I agree with others that a 2 story plan should ahve a bedroom downstairs. Some of us are getting older but still love modern...

I am intrested in building single or double stories living 1/2 BR houses in India for the local market, please tell me what designs you have and what does it cost to have the design layout. shrijitb_2001@yahoo.com

Looking at the plans on your website. Very interested in the concept behind your Stealth designs. The picture for The Pretender 3 plan looks very close to what I have in mind for a design. Any word on when that (or something similar) will be available.

I would be interested in more info and pricing when this is available. Any idea on a timeframe?? Georgia area

Greg, I'm an architect and have thought about the idea of a shipping container addition on my 1930's bungalow for almost a year, but I'm having some difficulty finding how the boxes are detailed. i realize this is proprietary information, but how are issues like roof insulation/drainage and other systems handled. drc@coredc.com

Do you have any photographs of any of these houses? All I have seen are drawings. I would like to see a photograph of one that was built. Thank You for any info.

Have you completed a smaller design of the Pretender? My wife and I are very interested in this design but I think we are looking for something in the 2000 sf range. We live in Ohio and would require a basement as well. Right now we are hunting for a build lot. We love the stealth design as most homes in our area are what I consider traditional / boring. Thanks

Ryan - I think you emailed me and I responded. I'm making slow progress on new designs as I've been busy. But in the works are the Pump House and the U House - both one story designs Cherie.

Dear "ShipConner", Contact us via the "contact" link in the menu, or post more info on Soapbox. I can not find a way to contact you through your website, and the Hilo link does not work.

Greg, is there a finished Cube House in the PA, DE, NJ area that people can actually look at?

I currently own a 40 foot container and would like to convert it if possible into a 2bed living space. Any design ideas

Many have inquired about making the ground floor into conditioned space. It is an easy modification. You need to decide how you want to use the space so I can design appropriate windows. The big change really is the foundation which now must go from piers to a perimeter wall. Email me or call if you want to explore this more.

That number from EcoContemp is a rough estimate for their package plus the owner's foundation and interior finish. The Porch House is hard to compare to that because you have to count the porch level at some cost lower than the conditioned level. But if you want to close in the porch level just budget for the 135 x both floors.

Hi Pascal, The first thing you should know is that the ground level of the Porch House is not enclosed with glass, it is enclosed with screens - a screened porch, hence the name. I realize that you don't have bugs in southern California, and the architectural form of this house is really driven by an east coast mentality - mosquitos have been brutal here for the past 10 years or so. But granted that, many people from California have inquired about the house, and closing in the ground floor to different degrees with glass. You do need to think about sun shading, and stopping the sun outside the house is much better than with blinds inside the house. My favorite solution is roll down shutters that allow you to shade and have ventilation at the same time. There are also exterior blinds made, quite popular in Australia, this kind of product has not really made headway here yet. As far as the structure if you look a the floor plans on my web site you will quickly understand the bracing scheme. The central stair and plumbing chase wall provide shear walls on the two major axis. Also not present in the illustrations, but detailed in the construction documents are steel rod X bracing in each corner of the ground floor on both axis. The ground floor is well braced lateral forces.

Would any of your plans be suitable for a home in Parnassos, Greece (fir forested area). I know that we should consider, hot and cold temperatures as well as earthquakes. We would want an energy efficient home. Alot of stone and concrete is generally used.Would appreciate any comment. Thanks

Hello! I am in love with your designs! Beautiful. We are considering a modular modern home to build in the next few years. We live in a pretty cold area of Canada (Alberta) where the winters can be fairly long and cold. Have any of your houses been built here? I am particularly fond of the Cube house. Thanks!

Hello! I love your ideas and designs! I read your comments above regarding sun...we live in Arizona with very hot weater for 2-3 months per year. Has anyone tried this in AZ or other hot climates? Thanks!

can you direct me to plans for container houmes

Like the Porch house, but what about minor alterations? Do you provide service to make subtle changes (such as enclosing the porch) so they appear in the building plans? JP Saleeby, MD

I have worked industrial construction over 20 years. I have thought about and have done sketches for many years on building a house from conexes ( shipping containors). Five years ago I was in Santa Cruz, Bolivia in a nice downtown area. My wife and I entered a game room that had the entrance of a conex and I thought it was strange and ugly, however when you went in you can notice that it is completely made of conexes and it had a vaulted ceiling. That gave me ideas for different sketches. I hope in the next few years to build my simple yet large conex house. I am not an architect but I am an iron worker.

Ive been looking through house plans for some inspiration. Then I found yours. Its not quite what I want yet I am inspired to find a design that provides modern living, is stylish and of practical design. I live in the uk and have a chalet bungalow which I wish to make bigger. I hope to build up and on top creating extra space, a pleasing modern design and incorporating self sufficient energy systems and lifestle enhancement. Ive nearly got what i want in my design - I think. I like modern,edwardian,mediteranian styles ( right mix up I know) - yet I dont want to waste space with roof lofts etc. I want to be able to enjoy every inch of space. Thats why I liked your designs - designed for living - to enjoy a better lifestyle. Your design is refreshing to find- as so many designs are whacky and impractical or repetative and dont take into consideration changeing lifestyle and concerns. Im not an architect - just a promo "girl" - my partner is in the building trade - though he can do the work, he has absolutely no taste for design! Id just like to congratulate you on you design and will look now at your other linked websites with interest. ROZ

I love this blog site! It's so exciting to see how you can really think outside of the box (pun intended). If I decided to use containers in an extension to my house in Jamaica what would be the feasibility of using a mostly buried one as a basement? Could it be made waterproof enough? The clay soil is worrying, so I though I'd get some opinions. Thanks! Suzanne

This stuff is amazing and cool. I want to build these for clients here in Central Florida inland at 120mph non-windbourne debris zone. Are these structures compliant with Florida building code for this wind load zone and are they Energy Star certified?

How about doing a single-storey design to compete in the "double-wide" modular home market? Locking and flanging containers together would be very strong, The "porch" is a nice touch for Southern homes as it is both useful and non-container-looking. I really like the upper storey treatment! The bay windows are a good idea for containers. They would be easy to fabricate. A single storey home would not require a crane to assemble. Using a steel beam and pier foundation you could lock the ISOs side by side to add space.

What about the flat roof,when rain falls. How does the water drain-off.

Would like more information and/or a brochure about this particular style home/homeplan.

Greg, Do you have ADA friendly houses designed somewhat along the lines of the Plat House? I love the linear layout but things like bathrooms and the smaller bedroom seem like they would be issues for us when it comes to using a wheelchair in that house. Just wondering if I missed something already here or if it is something you could adapt. Thanks!

Dear All We are in business of container fabrication and refurbishing since last 20 years. We are looking for well experienced person to work with us as managar planning, refurbishing and construction to convert sea container into different modules. Any body with relevant experience looking for challenging job in middle east and pakistan please write to zakir abowath email : zakir@zias.com.pk web : www.zias.com.pk tel ; 0092 333 2281477 cell tel : 0092 21 5837942 ofc.

We are currently tracking 2 Plat House projects and 1 Tray House on the blog: http://blog.lamidesign.com You can use the category links at the right side to bring up posts only for those projects. As far as size, most of our house designs are 2500 sqft or less with only one over 3000. We are definitely not in mcmansion territory.

I love the house and the stylish design. I am wondering how a house like this would look with antique furniture inside? I have loads of that..I am thinking the dichotomy could be appealing. Also, here in the North East US we have lots of snow. How will the roof hold up? Thanks...JM

I'm moving to Hawaii next summer and would like to know if your plans would be permitted there.

FYI we do have a customer building a Porch House outside of Austin, TX. You can follow it on our blog as we are updated by the owner with photos. http://blog.lamidesign.com/search/label/0367%20Porch%20House

Greg: I just found your site this evening and have read through the entire blog; very interesting discussion and excellent ideas presentation. I'm currently looking for a home in Portland, Oregon, and the idea of building, now after seeing these examples, is suddenly much more appealing. I studied the Plat House that was constructed in Arkansas--on the river--and was very impressed with the built-in cabinetry and casework. Are these interior elements part of the design plans package? I assume the kitchen cabinetry is, but all the other--like the low cabinets in the living room and probably elsewhere--were they just noted on the plans as "by others" or N.I.C.? Anyway, very thoughtful and exciting designs. Steve Ray

Cool design, there's the hug, but if the bears in my area (W. Mass.) get one sniff of that kitchen....OMG!

I want to build a lodge style, "T" shaped house. The two arms will be entered by a French door which will lead to a bedroom. Beyond the bedroom is the hall with walk-in closets and beyond that is the spacious bath will a soaking tub front and center, two sinks on each side. Commode and shower on the right and left as you enter the room. The body of the “T” will be two stories high. Family room and formal dinning will be divided with a fireplace seen from both sides and soaring the full height. The French doors to the two arm bedrooms will open from the dining room. The top and center of the “T” body will be the eat in kitchen, mud/laundry room and half bath. I want it in Livingston Texas. What will be the cost?

More photos were posted to our blog this week: http://blog.lamidesign.com/2008/02/austin-porch-house-plat-house-come-into.html

The porch level is essentially timberframed already, and you could use SIPs on the second level as well. You could support it with timber framing I suppose, but the spans are not so great that you could not just build it using load bearing SIPs. The Reinke shakes look cool to me - I like the idea using it for siding, yeah!

Steven, I could see a one story version of the Porch House doing what you are describing, but its so different it would be like designing a new house. I'm not sure what to tell you - working with the builder without a set of plans is a crap shoot.

No, I don't have partnerships with any company in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, but you are welcome to order plans to use for your cabins.

A roof, sloped, or unsloped as you put it, have to be designed to support the local snow load. In other words there is no issue here. Don't feel restrained by the weather. This question often comes up and I must admit that I am quite amazed that people have this misconception. Anyplace you go in this country you will find commercial buildings with flat roofs. No big deal. It is designed to be strong enough for the load. A house with a flat roof is more unusual, but no harder to do. Then people say "but flat roofs leak!" I have news for you - all roofs leak, eventually. The problem that most flat roofs have is that they use a parapet wall (look in your dictionary) and internal roof drains. If a drain blocks, or a pipe leaks, you have water in the house or building. A sloped roof with gutters, well when your gutter leaks you don't really notice do you? All that said none of my designs have flat roofs. I only use low slope roofing when the roof is not steep, and all my designs bring water over the outside wall into a gutter - no internal roof drains. I hope we can close the roofing portion of our discussion now. :) PS: gotta love Bruce's lair!

I love the house's that you have made out on the internet there are really great i may not no how bulid them but, god does and he is so.........thankful for it nice job......your a great house design DONT LET ANYONE BRING YOU DOWN ABOUT BUILDING HOUSE'S!!!!!!!!!! i might be thinking about making my (alisha) bying a house it's really good..... i believe that you can do anything that you (that house bilder) could like say this is mine and im pround of it so that means that you are pround of your work and i love the work but next time.....PUT HOW MUCH IT IS

Dear Gregory I did see your designs on House Plan Website. I am considering them, and just wanted to know how is your relationship with them. Do lot of people respond to these house plans, as I am not very clear about this virtual space. Do let me know.

Sorry to all who left messages here - I've not checked back in many months. Rinka, Yes, I am also distributing via Houseplans.com because they have shown to me that they share my core values, and they are also trying to raise the quality of design in the house plan biz. If you purchase through them you can do it with confidence - yes, we have a very positive relationship. Logan, great to hear about your local firm. What advice are you seeking? Please, anybody else reading these comments. If you wish a response from me, and I am eager to respond to your questions, you should contact me directly via the site http://www.lamidesign.com/plans This blog post is several years old and there is no subscription to comments. Its not possible for me to monitor this daily.