Shipping container-based architecture has produced plenty of innovative structures already, but isn't generally associated with beer ... until now. The recently-opened Austin, Texas-based Container Bar brings sustainable architecture and alcoholic beverages together under one roof, and provides a fine example of recycled architectural design, too.

Designed by North Arrow Studio and Hendley Knowles Design Studio, the Container Bar features seven shipping containers in all. The containers are stacked atop each other two stories in height and arranged to form a central courtyard space with a bar in the middle, and an upper deck area with patio and outdoor seating. In all, the bar's indoor and outdoor areas measure a combined 196 sq m (2,115 sq ft) of floorspace.

Five of the seven containers serve as lounging spaces, and North Arrow Studio decorated the interiors with bright colors and materials, making use of mosaic tiles, MDF, recycled wood, paper collage, and wallpaper. The firm also cut several windows into the containers.

The Container Bar comprises a total of seven shipping containers, which were stacked atop each other (Photo: Chris Perez)

The Container Bar opened for business earlier this year but the build took over three years from start to finish, thanks in part to the Austin authorities' unfamiliarity with shipping container-based structures, and the resulting headache in gaining the necessary permits.

Should the need arise, the Container Bar can be disassembled and moved with ease – or far easier than a typical bricks and mortar bar, anyway.

Sources: North Arrow Studio, Dunlap