The Charm of Shipping Container Bars: A New Vibe

Over the past few years, shipping container bars have been popping up in cities all around the world, offering a fresh and unique take on the traditional bar. These quirky, yet functional, spaces bring a new vibe to the nightlife scene, mixing industrial style with creative design. But what exactly makes shipping container bars so charming?

Let's dive into why these container-turned-bars are becoming a staple in urban spaces.

What Are Shipping Container Bars?

In recent years, a new trend has taken the bar scene by storm—shipping container bars. These mobile bars are made from repurposed shipping containers, the kind that typically transport goods across the globe. They are a unique and creative way to transform a simple metal box into a stylish, functional space. As this trend continues to grow, it’s clear that shipping container bars are here to stay, offering a fresh, eco-friendly alternative to traditional bars.

Why Shipping Containers Make Great Bars

So, why are shipping containers such a great choice for bars? There are a few key reasons.

First, shipping container bars are affordable. Building a traditional bar can be expensive, but by using a shipping container, bar owners can cut down on costs significantly. Shipping containers can often be purchased at a fraction of the price it would take to construct a permanent structure.

Another reason shipping containers work so well is because they are highly durable. Shipping containers are designed to withstand harsh conditions at sea, making them an ideal choice for outdoor bars or bars located in areas with tough weather. Their tough, weather-resistant design ensures that they can handle everything from rain to sun without compromising the experience inside.

Finally, shipping container bars are sustainable. By repurposing containers, bar owners are reducing waste and giving new life to something that would otherwise be discarded. This eco-conscious approach is becoming increasingly popular, especially among people who appreciate businesses that prioritize sustainability.

Designing a Shipping Container Bar

The design possibilities for a shipping container bar are endless. Despite their small size, these containers can be transformed into creative, functional spaces that are both stylish and comfortable.

Inside, shipping container bars often feature creative layouts, with cozy seating areas, modern lighting, and wooden countertops. The compact size forces bar owners to be clever with the use of space, ensuring that every inch is used efficiently while still providing a welcoming atmosphere for customers.

Outside, containers are often given a facelift with vibrant colors, bold murals, or even decorative plants that soften the industrial look. These design choices not only help the bars stand out but also create a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Some bars might even incorporate open sides or large windows to let in fresh air and offer an open-air experience, perfect for warm weather.

The ability to customize the design of shipping container bars means that each one has a unique character. Whether it’s a minimalist design or a more rustic, cozy vibe, the container can be made to reflect the personality of the bar owner and the style they want to convey.

The Unique Vibe of Shipping Container Bars

One of the main draws of shipping container bars is their distinct atmosphere. Despite their industrial exterior, the interior is often cozy and inviting, providing a perfect place to relax and enjoy a drink. The small, intimate nature of these bars makes them feel more personal, encouraging social interaction and making customers feel at ease.

The overall vibe of shipping container bars is often casual and welcoming. The mix of raw materials like metal and wood creates an interesting contrast, while the creative design adds a sense of fun and personality to the space. These bars offer a relaxed yet stylish experience that’s perfect for anyone looking for a unique spot to unwind.

Moreover, shipping container bars are often designed with sustainability in mind, making them appealing to environmentally conscious consumers who appreciate businesses that prioritize eco-friendly practices.

How Shipping Container Bars Are Changing the Bar Scene

The rise of shipping container bars is part of a larger trend that is changing how we think about bars and restaurants. As the demand for more sustainable and affordable businesses grows, shipping container bars offer a solution that meets both of these needs.

These bars are challenging the traditional concepts of what a bar should look like, and bar owners are embracing this shift to create something fresh and exciting. The popularity of shipping container bars shows that people are ready for new experiences that combine creativity, style, and sustainability.

This trend is also opening the door for more small businesses to enter the bar scene, as the cost of entry is lower compared to traditional bar construction. With their unique designs and eco-friendly focus, shipping container bars are paving the way for the future of hospitality.

Where You Can Find Shipping Container Bars

If you’re curious about where to visit a shipping container bar, some great examples around the world showcase how creative and stylish these spaces can be.

BRLO Brwhouse

BRLO Brwhouse, located near Park am Gleisdreieck in Berlin, is a paradise for craft beer lovers. It’s a mix of a brewery, bar, restaurant, and beer garden all in one spot. The Brwhouse, made from 38 recycled shipping containers, officially opened in January 2017, but its story started years earlier.

Katharina Kurz and Christian Laase discovered their shared love for beer while studying at university. When they met master brewer Michael Lembke, they were able to turn their long-time dream of starting something with beer into reality. Together, they founded BRLO and began brewing craft beer in Berlin in 2014.

Schmatz Beer Stand

Located in central Tokyo, SCHMATZ brings the classic German beer hall experience to Japan. Housed in a corrugated metal shipping container, the bar’s industrial exterior contrasts with the cozy, warm interior. Inside, a mix of timber floors, walls, and soft lighting creates a welcoming atmosphere. The wood evokes the traditional German beer hall vibe, while black and copper accents add a modern touch to the space.

Container Bar

Designed by North Arrow Studio and Hendley | Knowles Design Studio, Container Bar in Austin, Texas, is a unique bar built from shipping containers. Though simple in design, it took three years to complete and spans 2,115 square feet. The bar features both indoor and outdoor spaces, including a cold box, courtyard, and balconies. The containers were mostly left unchanged, with only windows and doors added. The bar is also portable, easily disassembled and relocated.

Conclusion

If you haven’t yet experienced a shipping container bar, now is the perfect time to check one out. These unique spaces offer something different from your average brick and mortar bar, with their cool designs, sustainable features, and intimate atmospheres. Whether you’re looking for a new place to hang out with friends or simply want to experience a creative and eco-friendly bar, shipping container bars are worth exploring.

What makes them even more appealing is the total cost—they are often more affordable to build than traditional bar structures, without sacrificing style or functionality. Shipping container bars can also be set up as mobile bars, making them a great option for events, festivals, or locations where a permanent structure isn’t feasible. Their flexibility and portability allow owners to attract customers in different places, offering a fresh experience wherever they go.

With their innovative bar design, these containers are ideal for providing a space that is both cozy and functional. Many shipping container bars also offer exceptional food service, enhancing the overall customer experience. The ability to create a unique setting in a small, intimate space is part of the appeal—there's just something about the vibe of a container bar that you can’t find in traditional venues.

With their charm, creativity, and forward-thinking approach to design, shipping container bars are more than just a trend—they’re shaping the future of the bar scene. Don’t miss out on experiencing one of these distinctive spots for yourself!

Create Your Own Container Bar with SuperBox

Looking to create your unique container bar? SuperBox can help you bring your idea to life. We offer high-quality shipping containers in 20-foot, 40-foot, or high cube sizes, perfect for turning into a stylish and functional bar. Whether you’re opening a new spot, adding something special to your current venue, or setting up a pop-up bar, we have the right container for your needs.

Our sturdy, reliable containers are built to last and provide the perfect foundation for your container bar.

At SuperBox, we don’t just offer containers—we provide the starting point for something amazing. We make it easy to build your container bar without the hassle of traditional construction.

Want to get started? Call SuperBox at 1-866-696-9269 and let’s turn your vision into reality today!