Lorraine Williamson
As Spain’s housing crisis deepens, more residents are turning to creative solutions. Traditional homeownership is increasingly out of reach for many, while affordable rentals continue to decline in availability.
In response, some entrepreneurs are exploring alternative living options. Among them are José Antonio and Jan Eskenazi. One repurposes shipping containers into homes, the other designs portable living capsules. Both aim to provide sustainable, budget-friendly alternatives.
From shipping container to studio apartment
José Antonio began experimenting with containers when he purchased six for €200 each. Originally destined for scrap, they became the foundation for compact, functional homes.
Each container measures 35 square metres and includes a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and lounge area. Though the exterior retains its industrial look, the interiors are clean and efficient.
Antonio’s goal is simple: offer quality housing to people priced out of the market. “We have to use what’s already available,” he explains. His model challenges the idea that a home must be expensive or large to be liveable.
Living off-grid in a self-sufficient capsule
Jan Eskenazi has taken a different route. His capsule homes are designed for complete autonomy. These compact structures operate entirely off-grid, using solar power and recycled water systems.
Originally a builder of dog houses and garden sheds, Eskenazi now focuses on helping people live more sustainably. “I don’t build houses—I teach people how to live with less,” he says.
His capsules are portable, can be placed almost anywhere, and are aimed at those who value independence over space. They appeal to individuals seeking simplicity, environmental responsibility, or the flexibility to relocate easily.
Compact living for a changing society
Both Antonio and Eskenazi propose solutions for those struggling with high living costs. Their housing concepts are not only cheaper but also reflect changing values—favouring mobility, sustainability, and minimalism.
Many in Spain are now questioning the traditional housing model. Must comfort depend on size? Or can good design and low costs redefine what makes a home?
Container and capsule living may not suit everyone, but they clearly meet a growing demand. As energy bills rise and cities grow denser, small, well-designed homes offer practical benefits.
A shift towards simplicity and independence
This movement is no longer just about affordability. It’s about lifestyle choice. These homes challenge assumptions about comfort, space, and consumption.
For some, a smaller home means greater freedom: fewer possessions, lower costs, and a reduced environmental impact. As housing concerns grow, these alternatives offer more than a roof—they offer a new way to live.
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