For many, particularly young people entering the market and older people leaving the workforce, the American dream of a big house on several acres land can be a distant fantasy. Ā And even for those who are living the dream, a sudden interest-rate rise, job loss or chronic illness could rapidly turn it into a nightmare.
As a result of these concerns, a housing trend has re-emerged towardsĀ building much smaller houses. TheĀ tiny home movement originated in the United States in the late 1990s, largely in response to problems with housing affordability; but recently it has been spurred on by the global financial crisis and a widespread desire to live more sustainable and minimalist lifestyles.
Tiny Homes, Sustainable Homes, or small space living offer a bevy of rewards to those who decide they donāt need many things and are ready to streamline their life. There are many reasons to choose small space living. Some people may want a house that moves with them, to not have a mortgage, or simply to live lightly.
6 Main Benefits of Living in a Tiny Home Today
- LOWER ENERGY USAGE
Tiny homes consume less energy and cost less to maintain. Smaller appliances are typically more efficient. One will use less energy, and water, and create less waste. A tiny home could potentially be heated with a wood stove and powered by a solar array.Ā - IT COSTS LESSĀ
Tiny homes cost a fraction of the price of traditional homes. The cost to own or rent will be significantly less and they cost less to maintain. Since small spaces use less energy, there will be less outlay on all bills related to the home. Reducing housing expenses may let owners/tenants save money for (or in) retirement, travel, or allow them to decide to work less. - STREAMLINED MAINTENANCE
A tiny home is easier to With fewer appliances to repair, less exterior area to maintain and even less space to clean, those who live in small spaces may have more time to spend on work, fun hobbies, and their relationships. - MOBILITY
Tiny Homes can be made to be mobile. Whether itās a vacation or a new permanent spot, a tiny home can be built to travel. - MINIMALIST LIFESTYLE
De-clutter. There is only room for the important things and those things that matter most. Plus, there is also the opportunity for more focus and less distraction. A tiny home can be constructed from recycled, repurposed, and salvaged items. - ECO-FRIENDLY LIVING LIFESTYLE
By using less energy tiny homeowners reduce their carbon footprint. There is only room for vital appliances, so you save on electricity bills. Also, there is the potential for minimal expense on a rainwater collection system and composting toilet. The tiny home can be designed to be completely off-grid.
Considering a Tiny Home or Sustainable Home… and looking for an Architect to help you design it?
AlthoughĀ information is plentifulĀ on building techniques, plans and design, it is not very easy to build a tiny home.Ā Having an experienced architect to help you design, plan and help oversee it’s construction can be well worth it, and get you exactly what you want.