Today was the installation of the HVAC system. I chose a Mitsubishi mini split system based on its reputation as the best, quietest, and most long lasting. Even though these are becoming more widespread in North America and Home Depot advertises them, finding someone to put them in new construction is a challenge. I found […]

Phew, started on some stairs to make it easier to get into and out if the back, which turned into a weekend of stair building. For the outdoor ones, I used premade deck stair stringers, so I guess I cheated. But it allowed me to get two sets built mostly by myself (I had a […]

Although I have posted in a while and the outside mostly looks the same, there has been a ton going on. Most of the welding on the exterior is complete. The last of it should be completed this weekend. The first floor stair opening is done and looks great. The window and door openings have […]

The first floor is dried in and framing is mostly complete.  Everything turned out as planned.  The welders have been working hard to get all of the seams welded up, often working into the night.  I had a video of them welding at night, but I am unable to post it here.  The roof seams […]

Now that I am further along with the actual structure, I am able to focus on other aspects of the project.  There are two non-traditional parts that I am considering. One would be to put a vintage or industrial looking sign / marquee on the front of the house.  The house will already be very […]

I was planning on hiring someone to install the windows and doors, with someone else to do the framing.  Hurricane Harvey has prevented me from getting someone to do that work.  Instead of just sitting around and waiting for availability, I have taken it upon myself to do that.  While it is not super complicated, […]

I ordered doors and windows for the whole project months ago, in fact, before the fabrication even began.  That way the cutting and reinforcing could be done to a specification of an actual window or door, versus the other way around.  The doors and windows will be delivered next week, even though they have been […]

This part was always planned to be a one day affair.  In the end, it was.  But not without significant challenges.  Even those with quite a bit of experience with containers challenged that we could do 11 containers in one day (through the rain, no less).  But we did it, on Halloween. The containers had […]

I have been telling people that stop by during the construction process that I would have a website with information.  I am certainly glad that so many people are not only receptive to the idea, but interested in it.  I had to put the info in one place to answer the most common questions, give […]