This gallery shows the moment Martyn and Karon discovered just how stubborn two 40-foot containers can be. Armed with a 4-ton floor jack, ratchet straps, and a heroic amount of brute force, they finally persuaded the containers to line up properly. After sealing the gaps (and discovering a few more they didn’t know existed), work moved inside. Martyn built roof supports so the ceiling wouldn’t suddenly become floor décor, then tackled the long, hot, dusty job of cutting out the walls. And just like that — two containers magically became one giant 40ft by 16ft box. Ta-da!

Container Prep

Container Prep Video (Compilation)

Steps & Deck

After enough acrobatic entrances and exits, Martyn decided it was time for real steps and a proper little deck. Armed with tools, timber, and a determination to stop risking broken ankles, he built a sturdy entryway that made getting in and out of the containers much easier — and far more dignified.

The Sub-floor

Let the construction begin! Task number one: build a sub-floor that wouldn’t bounce, creak, or turn into an ice rink in winter. Martyn got to work with 4x2 CLS timber, setting every joist at 400mm on centre — checking, re-checking, and then checking again (just in case). Next came 50mm foam insulation to keep the Welsh chill where it belongs: outside. Finally, 18mm OSB went down, instantly transforming the containers from “giant cold steel boxes” into something that started to look like a home. A satisfying step… and the start of many more sawdust-filled days.