Have you ever considered that a simple steel box could be the key to solving the housing crisis?
Mākhers Studio, under the visionary leadership of founder and CEO Wanona Satcher, is transforming this concept into reality by repurposing shipping containers into sustainable, affordable housing solutions.
From Basement Beginnings to Expansive Endeavours
In 2017, Satcher, a certified modular builder and landscape architect, embarked on a mission to address the pressing need for equitable housing. Starting in the basement of her West End Atlanta home, she established Mākhers Studio with a clear vision: to convert surplus shipping containers into versatile living and community spaces. Today, the company operates from a sprawling 25,000-square-foot facility on four acres in East Point, Georgia, a testament to its remarkable growth and commitment to innovation.
The Magic of Plug In Pods™
Central to Mākhers Studio’s offerings are their Plug In Pods™—customised shipping containers transformed into energy-efficient, multipurpose units. These pods serve a myriad of functions, from individual and stacked housing units to ADA-accessible and multifamily dwellings. Beyond residential applications, they’ve been adapted into medical clinics, disaster relief stations, and retail spaces, showcasing their versatility and the company’s adaptive design approach.
A Sustainable Approach to Modern Housing
Satcher emphasises that addressing the housing shortage isn’t solely about increasing supply; it’s about the quality and sustainability of the materials used. “It’s not just about building a supply of housing,” she explains. “It’s also about the kind of materials that you build with, and we know that especially in public housing those materials have not been healthy.” By utilising recycled steel shipping containers, Mākhers Studio not only reduces waste but also offers a durable and eco-friendly housing alternative.
Affordable Solutions for Diverse Communities
Understanding the financial constraints many face, Mākhers Studio offers customised micro-housing units starting at £60,000. This pricing makes homeownership more attainable for a broader audience. Currently, the company is collaborating on projects to construct affordable housing for veterans and families in Durham, North Carolina, reflecting their commitment to serving diverse communities and addressing specific housing needs.
“It’s not just about building a supply of housing. It’s also about the kind of materials that you build with.” — Wanona Satcher, Founder and CEO of Mākhers Studio
Join the Movement for Sustainable Housing
Mākhers Studio is redefining affordable housing through innovative design and sustainable practices. By transforming shipping containers into functional living spaces, they’re not only providing homes but also fostering hope and resilience in communities. Explore more about their groundbreaking work and discover how you can be part of the solution to the housing crisis.
