S.I. Container Builds Blog
Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Shipping Container Buildings (And Why They’re Changing the Way We Build).
If you’ve ever wondered whether shipping container buildings are durable, affordable, sustainable, or just a trend — you’re not alone. At SI Container Builds, we hear the same questions every day: How strong are they? Are they code-compliant? Can they really be beautiful? The answer is yes — and so much more. From single-container ADUs to large-scale commercial and residential projects, container construction is redefining what’s possible in modern building. Here’s everything you need to know before starting your own container project.
Women Talk Construction - with Rory Rubin of S.I. Container Builds
Episode 82: Our founder, Rory Rubin talks with the Angela Gardner and Christi Powell of Women Talk Construction Podcast fame.
Portable Housing, Reimagined: How SICBS P3 Housing is Making Worksites Smarter
Repurposed shipping containers have been stealing the spotlight as a smart, budget-friendly, and incredibly flexible solution for workforce housing that’s built to last.
ULI Chicago’s Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) Initiative
The Urban Land Institute (ULI) Chicago’s Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) initiative is a collaborative policy and research effort launched in 2019 to help create a workable, equitable framework for expanding ADU development in Chicago.
JOIN OUR CAPITAL RAISE
SICBS is raising $2M in equity (and up to $1M via debt) as our business explodes—$240M pipeline and several key projects closing—for salespeople, equipment, production space, and operating cash.
Her Husband Said Buy a Sports Car (She Built a Factory Instead)
Rory Rubin is interviewed on the CEO BROS.
Transforming Shipping Containers into safe, sustainable, and fully certified buildings
Rory Rubin was interviewed by Dave Cooper Live 11.12.25
The Power of Deconstruction: Saving Money, Reducing Waste, and Building a Better Future
When most people think about removing an old home or structure, demolition comes to mind—big machines, dust, and debris heading straight to the landfill. But there’s a better way to do it: deconstruction.
Most Leaders Don’t Celebrate Their Wins—But They Should
Rory Rubin, the CEO of S.I. Container Builds, was interviewed by HBR
2025 Crain's Chicago Business Notable Leader in Sustainability
Rory Rubin, a Crain’s notable leader in sustainability two years in a row—2024 & 2025.
"Our bounty comes from the sea!"
SICBS’ First Halloween Kickoff Party Was a Spooky Success.
Daily Herald Article: Unique home for trafficked teen girls opening soon in Palatine
The facility will meet the additional goal of environmental sustainability — it will be constructed out of shipping containers, courtesy of the Buffalo Grove-based S.I. Container Builds Inc.
Rory Rubin from SICBS interviewed on Real Finds Podcast
Rory Rubin, CEO of SI Container Builds, breaks down how steel-framed, factory-built homes and multifamily can be ~50% faster to deliver and ~10% less expensive than traditional site-built.
WGN Noon Business Lunch: Container Homes with SICBS
WGN recent visit to SI Container Builds, who are doing remarkable things with used containers (40’x8′) and turning them into affordable housing.
Shipping Containers as Modern Sheds: A Smart, Sustainable Trend
Shipping containers aren’t just for global trade anymore — they’ve become one of the most stylish and sustainable ways to create functional spaces right in your backyard.
S.I. Container Builds on Investor Fuel Podcast
In this Investor Fuel podcast episode, Rory Rubin discusses the challenges and opportunities in the real estate and construction industry, particularly focusing on affordable housing solutions using shipping containers.
Chicago Passes ADU Bill! Why a SICBS Container "Granny Flat" is the Smartest Move You Can Make
On September 25, 2025, Chicago officially passed the ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) bill — and it’s a game changer.
S.I Container Builds is Named One of the Top 100 Finalists for the 24th Annual Chicago Innovation Awards
Out of 315 nominees, S.I. Container Builds of Buffalo Grove, IL has been selected as one of the Top 100 Finalists still in the running for the 24th annual Chicago Innovation Awards.
Regenerative Building with Permaculture: Rising Stronger After Fire
Shipping container homes are a powerful example of resilient, sustainable design. SICBS’ steel structures make them naturally fire-resistant, and with proper insulation and thoughtful siting, they are incredibly durable against weather extremes—from heavy storms to heatwaves.
We Build Cheaper!
We invite you to visit our warehouse for a tour. See firsthand how SICBS can help you build faster, stronger, greener—and most importantly—more profitably.
