Shipping containers are large steel boxes commonly used for the storage and transportation of goods. Many people will be familiar with the large containers seen on cargo ships - however they can be converted for a variety of surprising uses.
Boxpark: Shipping Containers to Urban Shopping Mall
Boxpark, a shopping mall made from used shipping containers, is one of the world's first "popup shopping malls". Located directly at the Shoreditch High Street Tube station in London, the mall is constructed on a temporary site from 61 recycled shipping containers. The lower floor consists of 41 containers, and the remaining 20 shipping containers are on the upper floor. Almost all of the stores on the first floor open directly onto the sidewalk, with the exception of the retail unit (Nike) closest to the Tube station, which still has street high visibility. The second floor provides a great amount of seating for the multiple restaurants and coffee shops.