Shipping container homes seem like a "why didn't I think of that idea and in fact have been popular in some U.S. locations where zoning regulations permit. There have even been hotels and business offices built using them. I have seen several in the New Mexico desert but they are not allowed in Taos or Santa Fe because they do not conform to the local architectural standards — they don't look like a Pueblo.
You will find several interesting shipping container homes and buildings
here and
here.
Before you jump on the bandwagon you might want to look at
this article on the downsides of shipping container buildings. I have a friend who fixed on up as a lake cabin but because of the heat in the summer and cold in the winter he has found he can only live there comfortably a few months out of the year without ruinous utility bills.