Hurricane-Proof Shipping Container House in Florida: How One Artist Rebuilt Stronger After Irma
Written on July 19, 2025
by Alexandra Mkv
In the following categories: Shipping Container Architecture
Florida’s long hurricane season—from June 1st to November 30th—is a reminder of how crucial it is to build homes that can withstand nature’s toughest tests. Following the devastation of Hurricane Ian in 2022, which caused catastrophic damage across the state, more Floridians are exploring hurricane-proof shipping container houses as durable and sustainable living options. You can read more about Hurricane Ian’s impact on NOAA’s website.
Now, with Hurricane Milton approaching Florida, the demand for hurricane-resistant housing is higher than ever. Many remember Hurricane Irma in 2017—one of the strongest storms in U.S. history—and are turning to shipping containers for their structural strength and resilience. After all, these steel giants are built to survive the world’s harshest conditions at sea.
The Rebuild Journey: From Loss to Strength
One remarkable story comes from artist Rob DePiazza, who lost his home after Hurricane Irma. When a massive oak tree crushed his house, Rob decided not just to rebuild—but to rebuild smarter. Using nine recycled shipping containers, he designed a hurricane-proof container home that’s both functional and sustainable.
Rob managed most of the project himself with the help of small local teams. By February 2020, his new home was complete—a testament to creativity, perseverance, and smart design. The home totals 1,603 square feet of living space, spread across multiple levels. Rather than hiding the containers’ industrial history, Rob chose to celebrate it: the weathered cor-ten steel exterior proudly shows the marks of each container’s journey across the ocean.
A Hurricane-Proof Design Built to Last
The house features full insulation, modern furnishings, and reinforced shatterproof windows and doors designed to resist wind speeds of up to Category 5 hurricanes. The structure’s strength lies in the inherent durability of the shipping containers and how they’re welded together to form a cohesive frame.
Florida’s strict building codes make hurricane resistance a top priority. Rob’s home meets or exceeds these requirements, though finding insurance for such an unconventional structure was initially challenging. You can explore Florida’s latest hurricane-resistant construction standards here.
Why Shipping Containers Make Sense in Florida
- Structural Strength: Containers are engineered to handle 60,000+ pounds of cargo, making them inherently resilient.
- Wind Resistance: Properly anchored, they can withstand winds exceeding 150 mph.
- Sustainability: Reusing steel containers reduces waste and environmental impact.
- Cost Efficiency: Building with containers can save 20–40% compared to traditional homes.
These benefits make hurricane-proof container houses an appealing option for Floridians seeking safety without sacrificing design or sustainability.
A Bold Project with a Strong Message
Rob’s story isn’t just about building a new home—it’s about redefining resilience. His project proves that shipping containers can offer a practical and sustainable solution to the challenges of living in hurricane-prone regions. Beyond personal triumph, his house stands as a model for others seeking eco-friendly, disaster-resistant housing.
“These containers are made to survive the worst weather at sea,” Rob says. “Why not make them the foundation for surviving storms on land?”
Ready to Build Your Own Hurricane-Proof Container Home?
If you’re inspired by Rob’s story and want to build your own hurricane-proof shipping container house in Florida, YES Containers can help you get started. We supply shipping containers in Florida and across the U.S., ideal for residential, commercial, or custom building projects.
💡 Explore our Products page to learn how we can help you design and deliver your hurricane-resistant container home. Or call us today at (800) 223-4755 for a free consultation.
