Dam Camp Container Home on Guadalupe River

Nestled along the banks of the Guadalupe River, the Dam Camp Container Home is a remarkable architectural achievement. This three-acre property features two interconnected container homes, offering modern living with unparalleled access to the water. The property takes its name from its proximity to a lake dam on the river, adding a playful nod to its stunning location. With about 800 feet of waterfront on Lake Placid and views of the dam for Lake McQueeny, it is an idyllic retreat for water and nature enthusiasts.

The Design and Construction of the Dam Camp Container Home

Built with ingenuity and purpose, the Dam Camp Container Home is a testament to creativity in construction. To address the risk of flooding from the river, the home was constructed on an elaborate steel foundation, complete with reinforced concrete and steel columns. This solid base supports five horizontally placed containers and a towering sixth container, ensuring the structure is both durable and secure.

The design maximises the flexibility of container construction. Engineers removed large portions of the container walls, creating open and spacious interiors, while the steel frame provided the necessary structural support.

Unit A and Unit B: Two Homes with Distinct Layouts

The Dam Camp Container Home consists of two separate units that share a common steel foundation and staircase.

Unit A: This home is constructed from two parallel 40-foot containers, separated by an eight-foot gap that has been transformed into a high-ceilinged living area with clerestory windows. The unit features two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and can accommodate up to six guests. One of the bedrooms includes bunk beds, making it perfect for families or groups.

Unit B: Slightly larger, this unit combines two 40-foot containers with an additional 20-foot container, creating a unique layout. It also has two bedrooms and two bathrooms but can sleep nine people, thanks to a spacious bunk room.

Both units share a similar modern aesthetic, with light and airy interiors, open public spaces, and elevated decks that overlook the river.

Luxurious Interiors with a Modern Touch

Inside, the container homes exude luxury and style. The interiors feature a modern, minimalist design, with light finishes that enhance the natural light streaming in from the windows. Sliding doors and other clever design elements subtly remind you of the containers’ origins, while maintaining a high-end look and feel.

Large cutouts between containers create spacious living areas, and the elevated position offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The decks provide the perfect spot for morning coffee or evening relaxation, blending indoor and outdoor living seamlessly.

The Towering Sixth Container: A Landmark Feature

One of the most distinctive features of the Dam Camp is its sixth container, which stands vertically on a specially designed foundation. Initially planned to serve as an elevator shaft, this upright container now acts as a visual landmark for the property. The addition of the cut-out “Dam Camp” sign at its top enhances its role as a striking feature, making the property instantly recognisable.

Outdoor Amenities for Recreation and Relaxation

The Dam Camp’s outdoor features are as impressive as its interiors. The property boasts a sand beach, ideal for activities like paddleboarding and kayaking, as well as a covered pavilion, BBQ area, and picnic tables for group gatherings. For those who enjoy games, there is a sand volleyball court, horseshoe pit, and fish cleaning table for the day’s catch.

Other amenities include an outdoor shower and boat access, ensuring guests can fully enjoy the waterfront lifestyle. These thoughtful additions make the Dam Camp Container Home an unforgettable destination.

Originally designed as a short-term rental, the Dam Camp now serves as a private home. Though it is no longer available for public stays, its innovative design and functional beauty continue to inspire container home enthusiasts worldwide.