The present disclosure is directed to a modular dwelling constructed from intermodal containers. Particularly, the present disclosure is directed to a dwelling constructed from vertically oriented shipping containers. The dwelling may include a foundation and two or more intermodal containers disposed on and secured to the foundation. The intermodal containers may be separated by an interstitial space. The interstitial space may be fully or partially enclosed by a plurality of connector walls. Each intermodal container includes a top, a bottom, and four side walls One of the side walls may be a reinforced side wall. The reinforced side wall of one of the intermodal containers may extend parallel or perpendicular to one or more of the reinforced side walls of other intermodal containers. The dwelling may be divided into one or more rooms, floors, or apartments and may have doors, windows, appliances, a deck, or other common features.