S.I. Container Builds’ Modular Shipping Container Marina Building Installed at Navy Pier Marina, Marking Major Construction Milestone

The modular centerpiece of Chicago's new Navy Pier Marina has officially arrived. On May 28, 2025, S.I. Container Builds—a Chicago-based, woman-owned modular construction company—will open the installation of the shipping container-based marina building at Navy Pier, marking a key milestone in the development of the city’s newest waterfront destination.

Constructed off-site in S.I. Container Builds’ facility in the north suburbs and transported to the Pier in sections, the two-story structure will house the marina’s amenities: a full-service marina office, ship’s store, restrooms, showers, a boater’s lounge, bicycle repair station, and a pet relief area. The choice to use a modular solution provided uninterrupted construction which resulted in the quick time frame needed for a summer 2025 opening. Designed using 15 repurposed shipping containers, the building represents a powerful intersection of sustainability, modern design, and functional innovation.

“The installation of the modular marina building is a tangible sign that Navy Pier Marina is coming to life,” said Rory Rubin, CEO of S.I. Container Builds. “It’s a privilege to contribute to a project that celebrates not just Chicago’s waterfront, but also the possibilities of sustainable design and modular construction in urban infrastructure.”

The new building is part of a broader effort to transform the lakefront into a more accessible and engaging space for both residents and visitors. The facility blends contemporary architecture with subtle nods to Navy Pier’s historic roots while supporting green building principles by reusing materials and minimizing construction waste.