ConexTalk: Harrison's Innovative Business of the Month

When you think of shipping containers, you might picture the massive metal boxes stacked high on cargo ships, moving goods across the world. But at ConexTalk, based in Harrison, Ohio, these durable containers are being reimagined into creative, functional spaces. The modular building company is transforming these containers—known in military terms as Conex boxes—into homes, offices, pop-ups, and more.

What is a Conex Box?

The CONEX box, a portmanteau of "Container, express," was first developed during the Korean War as a means of transporting and storing supplies efficiently. Later, the concept was reinvented by Malcom McLean. Today, these containers are a vital part of global shipping, and companies like ConexTalk are showing that they can also be much more.

From Shipping to Building

ConexTalk takes these versatile containers and turns them into spaces that are secure, durable, and customizable. Whether you need a portable office, a pop-up retail space, or even a stylish bar, ConexTalk can deliver. In fact, their rentable container bar is a prime example of how these structures can be creatively repurposed.

ConexTalk’s unique process starts with a client’s idea. The team then designs a floor plan or rendering, selects the appropriate container, and begins the transformation. Within 6-8 weeks, the finished product is delivered by their in-house service, ConexTruck.

“It’s like building with blocks,” says Tori Smiley, President of ConexTalk. Even though you're starting with a container, you still have to install floors, plumbing, and electric, but the benefits are incredible. These units are super secure, built to last, portable, and easier to construct than traditional buildings. She also points out that compared to traditional construction, building with containers can be significantly more affordable. While costs vary depending on customization, container projects often save both time and money because they are quicker to assemble, use fewer materials, and require less labor.

Growing in Harrison

ConexTalk is proudly based in Harrison, where they’ve found a supportive environment for their innovative business. Their five-acre lot is home to more than 200 containers, offering clients the chance to browse and pick out the perfect size and condition for their project. The lot also serves as a hub of inspiration, allowing customers to see firsthand the possibilities that exist when working with containers.

In an exciting next step for the company, they are planning to build their own office out of shipping containers at their site on 136 Pilot Rd. The office will be a fully modular structure, showcasing the potential of container-based building. A rendering of the future office (see image below) highlights the sleek, modern design they envision.

The company also dreams of creating a "container town" at their site. This ambitious project will offer rentable office spaces and more, helping people to catch the vision of how much can be done with these containers.

Versatility and Vision

ConexTalk’s containers can be used for a wide variety of applications, from accessory dwelling units or ADUs (which the city of Cincinnati recently legalized under new zoning regulations) that offer affordable housing solutions, to temporary storage units and mobile offices. They can be customized with a range of finishes—painted, clad, or modified to fit any need. One of their most unique offerings is the Conex canopy, made from two 20-foot containers with a 40-foot canopy roof for extra storage and cover.

Looking Ahead

ConexTalk is always on the lookout for talented local workers, especially those skilled in welding, carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work. With plans to grow their team, the company is set to continue its upward trajectory, bringing creative, durable, and sustainable solutions to the forefront of building design.

Their customer list already includes big names like Kings Island, the University of Miami, Perfect North, and the Cincinnati Zoo, among others. With this solid foundation, the future looks bright for this local Harrison business that has put the town on the international logistics map.

As interest in modular buildings continues to rise, ConexTalk is well-positioned to lead the charge. Their plans to build out their office from shipping containers and create a community around this innovative construction method show that ConexTalk is here to stay.

For those interested in exploring the potential of shipping containers, whether for a backyard ADU or a fully outfitted office space, ConexTalk has the experience and vision to make it happen. And if you’re just looking for something unique for your next event, their rentable container bar might be exactly what you need.

To learn more about ConexTalk, visit their website: https://www.conextalk.com/

If you want to reach out to ConexTalk, you can call or text their main number: 513-398-3198 or send them an email at info@conextalk.com.