Lifelong Long Beach resident, Kimberly Gros had an idea to create a community gathering space from a used shipping container to celebrate the history of Long Beach, the largest import and export destination in North America. Born out of this idea was a 5,000 SF development created from 10 repurposed 20- and 40-foot shipping containers.

Situated on the corner of Long Beach Blvd. and Bixby Rd., the shipping containers activate the street with bright red colored containers, drought-resistant landscaping, community-style seating and string lights. Each metal container is prepared for tenant improvements by insulating the walls, cutting windows, preserving structural integrity and adding ventilation. From there, each container is personalized to its vendor’s needs through tenant improvements.

The wood tables, stools and bike racks are made from recycled materials. Founded on the core principles of restoration, craft and community, SteelCraft has become a destination for locals and travelers alike.

In 2017, expansion locations were approved by both the City of Garden Grove and the City of Bellflower. Howard CDM is the developer and builder for all SteelCraft locations.