There seems to be a growing trend among homeowners in constructing their new space out of unconventional materials. Though not the majority, there are a large number of Americans who are saying goodbye to their wood frame or stone homes and are embracing the unusual.

Shipping containers

As one of the most popular unconventional building materials, there are thousands of unused shipping containers around the world just waiting to be transformed into someone’s forever home. Cost-effective, sustainable, and cheaper than conventional building, Americans are purchasing shipping container homes in surprising numbers. When put together, they can be quite a comfortable size, and with the right amount of design and planning, have a desirably modern look.

Recycled plastic

In an effort to help eliminate some of the world’s increasing plastic waste, companies are turning recycled plastics into building materials, a la plastic bricks. You can think of these bricks as life-sized Legos®, only a little sturdier. Started by Colombian company Conceptos Plàsticos, the material is now popping up in the US, too.

Boats

Though the concept of a houseboat is nothing new, some people are taking the idea of aquatic living to a whole new level and creating luxurious spaces built for sea travel. Living on a boat allows its residents a certain freedom in being able to sail from destination to destination.

Barns

For Americans who grew up on farms, barns have a sense of nostalgia to a simpler time of rural country living. However, there are plenty of modern Americans who still desire the rural-look in their homes and have consulted to restructuring and refurbishing old barns, making them more comfortable and livable.