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Rory Rubin, founder of S.I. Container Builds, joins the Straight Up Chicago Investor Podcast to share her inspiring journey into modular construction using recycled shipping containers. From her background in social work to becoming a pioneer in sustainable housing, Rory’s story is a masterclass in innovation, grit, and delivering scalable housing solutions for modern challenges in Chicago and beyond.
From partnering with local nonprofits to launching Illinois’ first group home for trafficked youth using containers, Rory breaks down the economic, design, and social advantages of modular housing—especially for affordable developments in the Chicagoland area.
Questions We Answer in This Episode
Q: What’s the biggest barrier to widespread container housing adoption in Chicago?
A: Perception. Rory notes that most people still think containers are rusty boxes. But once they see a finished home—high ceilings, quartz counters, in-unit laundry—they’re blown away. The challenge is shifting the mindset and normalizing this durable, sustainable option.
Q: What is a modular container home?
A: It’s a fully code-compliant home built from recycled shipping containers in a factory, then transported and assembled on-site. The result is a sustainable, high-quality residence built faster and often cheaper than traditional stick-built construction.
Q: How long does it take to build a modular container home?
A: S.I. Container Builds can deliver a completed unit in 5–6 weeks. That speed opens new opportunities for developers and Chicago landlords looking to generate faster rental income.
Q: Is container housing safe and up to code?
A: Absolutely. Rory’s team is licensed, certified, and follows strict building codes for insulation, HVAC, plumbing, and safety. Many projects even qualify for 30-year mortgages and standard insurance.
Q: What was the impact of the Palatine group home project?
A: Huge. Built from 20 containers, this home will shelter young girls trafficked in Illinois, providing safe housing until they are fostered. It’s a powerful case study in container housing’s social potential.
Q: How does modular construction help solve affordability?
A: It reduces build time, material costs, and labor. Developers can avoid costly gas lines by going all-electric and potentially integrate solar. Modular also allows denser planning on smaller lots, increasing supply.
Q: What financing and insurance options exist for modular homes?
A: While challenging at first, banks like State Farm now finance modular builds. Insurance providers have also warmed to the model as it’s proven to meet code and durability standards.
Q: What are the design options for container homes?
A: Endless. Rory’s team customizes layouts for single-family, multi-family, or community developments. Homes are space-efficient, with 9’ ceilings, clever storage, and modern finishes.
Q: What cities have used container housing successfully?
A: London, Nashville, San Diego, Los Angeles, and more. Container high-rises, hotels, and stadiums exist worldwide. Rory’s team is currently working on subdivisions in Boston and Wisconsin.
Q: Is modular housing viable for Chicago suburbs?
A: Yes. With high suburban land prices and outdated zoning, modular housing offers a way to build smaller, denser, and more sustainable communities without compromising on quality.
Q: How can Chicago property managers get involved?
A: Partner with modular developers like Rory’s team. Identify infill lots or areas ripe for redevelopment. Think creatively about ADUs, affordable housing, or rental expansions.
Q: What’s Rory’s long-term vision for modular construction in Chicago?
A: Full-scale adoption across the city—where modular becomes a standard, not a novelty. She hopes to stop explaining “why” containers and instead focus on delivering impact.
Show Notes
00:44 – Rory’s journey from social work to sustainable construction
05:30 – The Palatine group home for trafficked youth using 20 containers
08:21 – Launching S.I. Container Builds in 2018 and the COVID-driven pivot
10:40 – Building modular projects in Boston, Wisconsin, and Chicago suburbs
14:00 – Addressing misconceptions: container homes are high-end and safe
16:11 – U.S. container surplus and sourcing across the country
19:12 – Subdivisions, electric-only builds, and solar-ready infrastructure
22:25 – Design innovations: quartz counters, smart layouts, 9’ ceilings
25:00 – Regulatory, insurance, and financing progress for modular homes
28:00 – Future goals: scaling modular for affordability and generational wealth
Takeaways for Chicago Property Managers and Landlords
- Modular container housing is fast, cost-effective, and built to code
- A 5–6 week build timeline can dramatically speed up rental income
- The Palatine project proves modularity can serve urgent social needs
- Developers can save on infrastructure by going electric and solar-ready
- Modular housing supports denser planning on smaller urban lots
- Insurance and financing for container homes are becoming mainstream
- Smart interior design makes units feel modern, not cramped
- Suburbs, infill lots, and ADUs are ripe opportunities for modular
- Partnering with builders like Rory’s team brings innovation to your portfolio
- Educate your city officials—container housing is sustainable, safe, and scalable
Guest Info
Name: Rory Rubin
Company: S.I. Container Builds
Website: sicontainerbuilds.com
Email: rory@sicbs.com
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