National Beach Day is a cherished occasion in the UK, celebrating our stunning coastlines and the joy they bring. In recent years, though, there’s an unexpected twist that’s sparking both curiosity and conversation: shipping containers at the seaside.
At first glance, the idea might seem unusual, but the innovative ways shipping containers are being used at the beach are transforming our coastal areas in surprising and delightful ways.
Above: Beach Box Café, Cornwall. Image Source: Bright Lights Big City.
Shipping Containers are Gaining Popularity for Beach Use
Shipping containers are finding a new purpose beyond the docks. They’re being repurposed as innovative spaces in seaside towns, making our beaches more charming and more ubiquitous, too. From pop-up shops to cafes and art galleries, shipping containers are making a name for themselves as versatile, eco-friendly, and economically beneficial.
Why Shipping Containers?
Versatility and Durability:
Shipping containers are designed to withstand the harsh conditions of sea travel, which makes them ideal for coastal environments. Their robust construction means they can endure the salty air and unpredictable weather that we’re all too used to in British seaside towns.
Eco-Friendly Solution:
Repurposing shipping containers is a brilliant example of upcycling. Instead of leaving them to rust away, giving these containers a new life reduces waste and promotes sustainability. Getting to grips with how to use shipping containers at the beach could help businesses align with the growing emphasis on sustainable practices across the UK.
Cost-Effective and Efficient:
Building traditional structures can be time-consuming and expensive. Reusing shipping containers, on the other hand, offers a really cost-effective alternative. They can be quickly installed and customised to meet various needs, making them an attractive option for businesses and local councils alike.
Transforming Seaside Experiences
Pop-Up Shops and Markets:
Seaside towns have a rich history of vibrant markets and local shops. Shipping containers are revitalising this tradition by being used as pop-up shops and market stalls. They’re perfect for small businesses and artisans as they provide affordable retail spaces and add a unique feel to the seaside landscape.
Cafes and Eateries:
People up and down the country can be found enjoying a cup of coffee or a delicious meal right on the beach, housed in a trendy, repurposed shipping container. Many seaside towns are adopting this concept, offering loads of different dining experiences that are both charming and convenient. The containers can be easily modified, too, to include windows, seating areas, and even rooftop terraces.
Art and Culture:
Shipping containers are also becoming creative hubs. Art galleries, performance spaces, and studios are popping up in these adaptable structures. They give a platform for local artists and performers to show off their talent, which livens up the cultural fabric of seaside communities.
Ways Shipping Containers Are Being Used at the Beach Across the UK
Brighton Beach:
For many years, Brighton has been a hub of creativity and innovation. The addition of shipping container installations along its beach has really enhanced this reputation. From chic cafes to quirky shops and bars, these containers seamlessly blend Brighton’s eclectic vibe, offering visitors new and exciting experiences.
Above: A shipping container venue on Brighton Beach. Image Source: Visit Brighton
Margate’s Turner Contemporary:
In Margate, shipping containers have been used to expand the Turner Contemporary art gallery. This initiative has allowed the gallery to host more exhibitions and events, drawing art lovers to the seaside town and boosting local tourism.
Riley’s Fish Shack, Tynemouth:
Riley’s in Tynemouth offers fresh, classic seafood dishes from a repurposed shipping container. Set in the stunning King Edwards Bay, it prides itself on offering a range of the very best fresh oysters, squid, or turbot. Diners can eat indoors or al fresco.
Above: Riley’s Fish Shack. Image Source: British GQ.
The Future of Shipping Containers at the Seaside
The trend of using shipping containers at the seaside is likely to continue growing. Their flexibility and cost-effectiveness make them an appealing choice for various applications. Moreover, as sustainability becomes an even more pressing concern, the repurposing of these containers offers an environmentally friendly solution that aligns with broader efforts to reduce waste and promote green practices.
Local councils and businesses recognise the potential of these structures to revitalise coastal areas. With thoughtful planning and design, shipping containers can be integrated in ways that respect the natural beauty of our beaches while providing practical benefits.
Looking for Used Shipping Containers to Repurpose?
At Philspace, we supply a wide range of used sale items that are perfect to be used on the beach. Ranging from smaller containers to large, 21ft x 8ft units, we’re sure to have the perfect match for your needs.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for shower or toilet units for beach use, then we’ve got you covered with our portable shower and toilet hire offerings. You can find out more about our full range of products here or by getting in touch with us today. Call us on 023 8022 3333 or drop us a line now.
