Architect MB Architecture (Maziar Behrooz)
Client Andrea Shapiro
Containers 2 × 40 ft High Cube
Area 840 sq ft
Year 2010
Location Amagansett, Long Island, New York, USA
Compact, Inspiring, and Built for Creativity
This container art studio in Long Island demonstrates how shipping containers can become refined creative spaces with light, volume, and character. Designed by MB Architecture for artist Andrea Shapiro, the 840 sq ft building was constructed from two 40 ft high cube containers, stacked and cut to create a double-height art space with a mezzanine studio.
The architect’s solution was both economical and inventive. By cutting most of the container floor area and setting the structure above a 9 ft foundation wall, a dramatic, sunlit workspace - far less than conventional construction. The wide stair acts as both a viewing gallery and an architectural centerpiece, connecting the upper work zone with the tall, open studio below.
Finished in dark charcoal to blend into the wooded surroundings, the studio is now an award-winning example of modern container architecture that balances economy with design quality.
Architectural Highlights
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Two stacked 40 ft containers placed over a concrete foundation wall
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75% of the lower floor cut out to create a 20 ft high open studio volume
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Mezzanine for private workspace and seating area
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Large glass openings to bring natural light into every corner
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Dark exterior coating to blend with forest surroundings
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Prefabricated assembly and minimal site disruption
The studio’s design demonstrates how containers can transcend their industrial origins to deliver calm, inspiring, and functional creative environments.
Why It Matters
This project redefines what’s possible within a limited budget. It shows that reused shipping containers can create world-class architecture that supports art, education, and modern working lifestyles.
By repurposing containers, the project avoided waste, reduced construction time, and achieved a sustainable, long-lasting structure. The modular layout also allows future expansion or relocation, making it ideal for flexible land use and urban infill conditions.
What It Could Mean for Sri Lanka
For Sri Lanka’s growing creative and educational sectors, this container art studio serves as an ideal model for affordable, flexible buildings.
Hybrid Cargotecture can replicate and localize this concept for:
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Art studios and design centers in Colombo, Kandy, and Galle
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University and school classrooms built rapidly using container modules
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Co-working hubs for architects, designers, or digital creators
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Community art galleries and open-air exhibition spaces
With HCD’s engineering and finishing expertise, such studios can be built in Sri Lanka in as little as 45 to 60 days. Our designs include tropical ventilation, insulation, energy-efficient lighting, and sustainable roof treatments suited for local conditions.
For universities, schools, and private artists, this approach offers a permanent, cost-efficient alternative to conventional construction - delivering both design appeal and long-term value.
Build it With Hybrid Cargotecture Sri Lanka
Hybrid Cargotecture (HCD) builds and delivers containerized buildings across Sri Lanka and the world.
Our design and engineering teams deliver complete modular spaces for living, learning, and creativity.
We provide:
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Custom container design and fabrication
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Thermal and acoustic insulation for tropical climates
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Structural reinforcements and modern finishes
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Fast, controlled factory production
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On-site installation and aftercare
Each Hybrid Cargotecture project balances design quality, comfort, and efficiency to meet the standards of world-class modular architecture.
