There are projects that come along in your career that simply make you proud to be part of this industry. Jesse Mugambi's "Studio Can-V" project is definitely one of those moments for us at Almar Container Group.
When Jesse Mugambi first walked into our offices with his sketches and designs, we knew we were looking at something extraordinary. This Kenyan student studying Sustainable Design at Brighton University had already won €50,000 (Sh7.6 million) in the Mast-Jagermeister Save The Night competition, beating 300 contestants from 50 countries. Now he had detailed plans for Studio Can-V and needed our expertise to make it reality.
What struck us immediately was his passion and the thoroughness of his planning. Jesse had designed every aspect of the mobile DJ studio and nightclub, but he needed guidance on how his vision would translate using shipping containers. That's where our team stepped in – Austin Kiplagat, our engineer, worked closely with Jesse on the technical aspects, helping him understand the structural possibilities and material requirements. Grace Maina handled the administrative coordination and communications, ensuring everything moved smoothly from concept to construction.
Working on Studio Can-V has been unlike any other project we've undertaken. Yes, we specialize in storage containers and reefers for traditional applications, but this? This was about creating a space where music comes alive, and communities gather.
The technical challenges were fascinating. How do you ensure proper acoustics in a steel container? How do you create lighting systems that work for both a recording studio by day and an energetic nightclub by night? How do you make it mobile while maintaining structural integrity?
One of the most critical aspects was the soundproofing. We installed 80mm acoustic panels throughout the entire container – walls, ceiling, and even the doors. This wasn't just about keeping sound in; it was about creating the perfect acoustic environment for professional recording while ensuring the nightclub wouldn't disturb neighbouring areas when the party was in full swing.
Our team approached each challenge with the same attention to detail we bring to all our projects, but there was an extra energy in the workshop. Everyone knew they were working on something that would make headlines – and more importantly, something that would support the creative arts community in Nairobi.
What made this project truly special wasn't just the technical innovation – it was Jesse's story. Here's a young man who studied architecture at Brighton, graduated in 2020, and instead of following a conventional path, chose to chase a dream that combined his love for music, his commitment to sustainability, and his pride in his Kenyan roots.
It reminded us why we love what we do – we're not just supplying containers; we're enabling dreams and supporting local economic growth.
There's nothing quite like the moment when a custom container project comes together. Watching Jesse's face when he first stepped into the completed Studio Can-V was unforgettable. You could see years of planning, hoping, and hard work crystallizing into reality.
The space transforms seamlessly from a professional recording studio during the day to an intimate nightclub at night. The acoustic treatments, the custom lighting systems, the mobile capabilities – everything working in perfect harmony. It's functional art, really.
While Jesse's story made international news and brought well-deserved recognition to African innovation, for us it represented something deeper. It showed that when you combine vision with craftsmanship, when you match dreams with practical expertise, incredible things can happen.
The project also reinforced our belief in the versatility of shipping containers. We've always known they could be more than just storage solutions, but seeing Studio Can-V in action – packed with music lovers, serving as a hub for Nairobi's artistic community – that was proof of concept in the best way possible.
Every project teaches you something new, and Studio Can-V was no exception. We learned about acoustic engineering, about the specific needs of mobile entertainment venues, about working with renewable materials in new ways. But more than that, we learned about the power of believing in someone's vision.
Studio Can-V will definitely be a project that we will remember. Because of the human connection – working with someone who dared to dream big and had the determination to see it through.
Almar Container Group is honoured to have played a role in bringing Studio Can-V to life. Projects like these remind us that behind every container is an opportunity to make a difference.
For more information about the possibilities of fabricated containers, get in touch with us. https://almarcontainergroup.com/ke/
Almar Kenya Expands with Dedicated Fabrication Facility
Nairobi, Kenya – Almar is expanding its operations with the establishment of a dedicated fabrication facility. This strategic investment will enhance Almar’s ability to innovate, refine, and develop customized container solutions that meet the ever evolving demands of industries across East Africa.
A Space for Creativity and Innovation
The new facility is designed to provide Almar’s team with the tools and environment needed to push the boundaries of container fabrication. By centralizing production in a specialized space, Almar Kenya is set to improve levels of efficiency, quality control, and turnaround times.
Meeting the Needs of a Dynamic Market
By equipping the fabrication team with state of the art resources, the expansion aligns with Almar’s long standing values to Partner and Solve, working closely with clients to develop practical, customized solutions that address real world operational challenges.
For businesses interested in exploring container modifications or custom built solutions, the Almar Kenya team is available to discuss tailored options.
Connect with us to learn more about how modular container solutions can support your operations.
Converted or fabricated containers offer the ideal solution for tourist camps in game reserves across East Africa, aligning with the government's requirement of minimising the environmental impact throughout the 10-year permit period. Subsequently, the camp can either be dissolved or undergo further development and improvements. Here's why converted containers are the most environmentally-sensitive choice:
Converted containers provide an innovative and environmentally-sensitive solution for tourist camps in game reserves throughout East Africa. Their sustainable attributes help meet the government's requirement for a minimal environmental footprint, while still allowing for flexibility, adaptability, and the potential for further development or improvements within the 10-year permit period.
For more information about converted containers email sales.ke@almar.co.ke or phone +254 719 675 272.
Converted office containers have become a popular trend in Kenya as they offer a cost-effective and flexible solution to businesses that need additional workspace or a temporary office/s.
Almar East Africa specialises in the conversion of shipping containers into office spaces. The conversion process is done in-house by Almar’s team of specialists and this involves creating windows and doors in the container, adding insulation and ventilation, and installing electrical and plumbing systems. The interior is customised to meet the specific needs of the business, with options such as partitions, shelving, and lighting.
Almar converted office containers have several advantages over traditional office spaces. They are durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions. They are also portable and can be easily transported to different locations, making them suitable for businesses that need to move frequently or for temporary set-ups. Ideal for construction, housing or mining projects that require infrastructure for staff working on the development. Converted office containers offer a practical and cost-effective solution.
Container offices, also known as modular offices or converted shipping container offices, offer several benefits to businesses and organisations. Here are some of the key advantages of using a container office:
Flatpack containers, also known as modular or collapsible containers, are also an option for office containers.
Almar Flatpack Containers is a modular system that allows for the quick and simple assembly of a temporary or semi-permanent facility. Almar East Africa offers turnkey solutions in certain regions including office design, camp design, delivery, and assembly ensuring that you can focus on your core offering leaving the workplace and housing of your staff to the Almar East Africa team.
Due to the interchangeable panel system and modular nature of the flatpacks they can be used to construct multistorey buildings or office blocks, and once joined allow for a number of layout design options.
The Almar flatpack is a modular solution built within the dimensions of a standard 20’ container. Each Flatpack unit comes supplied with insulated panels, full electrics, vinyl flooring, 2 x windows, and 1 door.
For more information contact the Tel: +254 719 675 272 and sales.ke@almar.co.ke.
Almar’s custom-made, high-quality fabrication projects are implemented in partnership with the customer from idea inceptions to site mobilisation. These tailored container conversions are created by a team of ‘in-house’ engineers and design experts.
Eduardt Ruhling, MD for Almar’s East Africa Conversions, says that the team involved in creating bespoke container fabrications are highly skilled in their areas of expertise – design, engineering, manufacturing, and aesthetics.
“We specialise in bespoke container fabrications with the focus being on quality finishes and workmanship, and this is something that we take great pride and pleasure in. It is so rewarding to see the final product, created specifically for the end-use, in ‘action’ whether it be a coffee shop, a retail store, or a double-story office,” explains Eduardt.
According to Richard Bell, Operations Director of Rural Retail for the One Acre Fund in Kenya, Almar played a key role in helping them achieve rapid expansion of their rural retail network. “We appreciate the good levels of communication and collaborative approach to addressing issues when they arise. The team is great to work with - responsive, professional, and takes great pride in their work,’’ comments Richard.
Another customer, Ritesh Doshi, CEO of Spring Valley Coffee says, “Almar was a thought partner as we designed and built our container café. They clearly know their craft and gave us the best advice for our needs. Their commitment to quality is evident, and the outcome is reflective of our brands and fit for purpose.”
For more please information please contact Eduardt on +254 700 036 742 or +254 719 675 272 or email eduardt@almar.co.ke.
It can be a false economy to purchase a container office outright for a short contract away from base. That’s because it’s not always easy to provide the assurances the reseller market needs. Most purchasers prefer to source their rental office containers from reliable suppliers including Almar Container Group. We supply our intermodal shipping containers with rock solid warranties and all your questions answered.
We need flexibility above most things in a dynamic economy. What seemed the ideal location may no longer prove to be the right decision as a project rolls out. Intermodal shipping containers are designed with the intention of moving around. They have secure lifting points at all eight corners and are strong enough to support far more weight than a fitted office.
Hence intermodal shipping containers make perfect temporary office accommodation. Moreover, our rental office containers may come complete with electrical, plumbing and drainage reticulation. All you need do is connect them with the necessary services. How hassle-free is that, compared to erecting a prefabricated building that may not disassemble, move, and reassemble again properly?
Find more answers to your questions here.
We extend the life of intermodal containers by finding new uses for them. We believe in recycling things because new construction comes with carbon costs. Our robust, modular range includes:
Speak to Almar Container Group in confidence for all your rental office container solutions soon.
Shipping container home builders are an increasingly familiar sight in parts of South Africa where city regulations do not apply. Hence they make perfect farmsteads and superior accommodation in rural areas and informal settlements. Elsewhere, municipal authorities are still catching up with the new technology so special permission is required.
Inspect Your Future Home Before You Buy: Intermodal shipping containers have a tough time as they travel the seven seas, and ride on railways and roads to the four corners of the earth. Some are in surprisingly good shape except for light surface rust. Others are badly dented with weakened welds. Insist the seller lifts your container up with a crane so you can check the underside.
Understand How Structural Integrity Works: A shipping container is a box with rigid doors adding extra strength. There is no internal cross-bracing. Hence it follows cutting openings without careful thought could weaken the design. Ask your container supplier for advice. It’s their business, they should know.
Begin Your Upgrade with Thermal Insulation: Experienced shipping container home builders know intermodal container insulation is limited. They begin their work by spraying foam on the inside walls that double as a flame retardant. Then they fit a false ceiling inside that vents through the roof and feeds power to the overhead lights. Finally, they fit a slightly raised floor to their new home.
Use a Single Contractor for the Entire Project: Project-managing the conversion using multiple contractors works well if you understand the various trades. If not, they could run rings around you by blaming each other for defects. If you are unsure, find a decent shipping container supplier who can manage the whole job. Even better, have them do the conversion for you, and deliver a complete home to your site.
Then Let Your Imagination Run Riot: Experienced shipping container home builders provide the basics. Then it’s up to you to add the furniture and the drapes. Use some of your savings, compared to brick and mortar to spoil your family just a little. How about buying that home entertainment centre you always wanted?
An entry-level shipping container home builder new to the game can make a difference in their family’s lives with this brilliant technology, and things can happen fast with the right provider. Explore more ideas through these selected posts from our popular blog.
Selected Posts:
We have to be precise about the length of every 20ft container we supply. That’s because they have to fit on top of each other and squeeze easily into tight spaces. There were freight containers in the UK in the 1830’s for transferring coal from railways to horse-drawn carts.
However they only really took off in the 1950’s after the U.S. Army developed rigid steel containers with lifting rings. Hence container lengths measure in feet not meters.
The 20ft container is the smallest in the standard range. Thus this container design is popular for transporting goods to locations with less sophisticated lifting and carrying equipment. We call them intermodal containers because they can travel in different modes of transport.
There are other names for these amazing devices that can travel by ship and rail and truck. These include cargo / freight container, iso container, shipping / sea / ocean container, container van, sea can, or just container.
Every ounce of energy we use contributes to greenhouse gas, and humans are currently causing too much of it. Moreover, the same applies to building construction. Our lightweight 20ft containers are in aluminium because this considerably reduces lifting and transportation costs. Moreover when their intermodal days are over they find other uses as transportable buildings.
A 20ft container becomes a habitable building when we add a door and window and fit it out. Moreover being lightweight aluminium makes this a fairly easy task. The attachment points on all eight corners simplify transport by ship and rail and truck, and even cargo airplanes. As a consequence, our engineers are able to assist with these cost / time saving projects:
Qatar is building a modular, demountable soccer stadium for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. This 40,000-seater is rising from the desert immediately southeast of Doha on the Persian Gulf. The modified shipping containers sit within a steel framework creating the perimeter wall and tiered seating.
A variety of reinforced 20ft container versions and larger types will have pre-installed stairs, concessions, and bathrooms. This uses fewer materials, creates less waste, and leaves a lighter carbon footprint. They can move the Ras Abu Aboud Stadium to its first legacy location when the games are over. A renewable soccer stadium, who would have thought of that…
