One of the largest appeals of tiny house living has to do with the connection with nature. There’s something about having a thick forest on all sides stretching as far as you can see that brings a sense of peace. Whether you identify with the large redwoods of Northern California or the sandy beaches of North Carolina we can find deeper meaning through immersion with nature. In today’s world there’s a constant pressure to accumulate more of everything, but some people are finding that less truly is more.
You might think abandoning a good portion of your worldly possessions in favor of living a more frugal life could bring with it a sense of nostalgia for things you once had, but these folks did just that and couldn’t be happier. In fact, once you own fewer pots and pans, pairs of shoes, and other knick-knacks it brings what you do have into focus. Pretty soon the single cast iron skillet you own and the old pair of hiking boots become your favorites. Shedding material possession also brings you close to the people in your life. Working together to build something like brings a sense of ownership and pride that couples can share together.
Black Snake Homestead
This family from North Carolina set out to build their own off the grid, sustainable home and achieved that goal for just about $8k. Sure it has an eccentric look, with a mixture of siding, reclaimed pieces of wood, and many other bits and pieces they sourced, but that adds to the character. The owner shares a few things they learned along the way, most of them byproducts of trying to get the structure built quickly instead of taking their time and doing things to code. For example he wishes the exterior were entirely made of cedar, the porch a bit larger since that’s where they spend a lot of time, and the salvaged door a bit sturdier. You live and learn when taking on a project like this, and for what they spent it seems like an impressive and cozy place. (source)
Tiny Modern Style on a Trailer
This home was built by Macy of Minimotives and showcases a creative approach to using a trailer bed as a foundation upon which she built a very stylish and highly functional tiny home. I love the little front porch and the interior looks like something that would be featured in a design magazine. The layout is perfect, from the kitchen to the shower/bath, and the elevated sleeping area. (source)
Studiomama’s Beach House
We love seeing tiny houses like this, where location is everything. Beach front property usually costs an arma nd a leg but with this 388 sq. ft structure she saves big time. The design is super clean and I love the huge window that overlooks the water. Big skylights allow light to fill the structure and a sleeping platform with bunk beds allows several humans to live comfortably here. (source)
The Sol Duc Cabin
This cabin was built for a guy who likes fly-fishing on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington. It features a rugged yet modern look and feel, with sliding panels originally designed for sliding barn doors that cover the windows to protect it from the elements when unoccupied. The stilts keep it elevated off the ground and way from wandering critters. Inside they built two levels, with a loft area made from salvaged 2x4s and other lumber the owner had sitting around. (source)
Life in the Woods
This beautifully constructed cabin was built in the woods of Northern California and showcases an incredible design. Everything about it exudes a sense of peacefulness, from the interior to the exterior and its surroundings. This is a tiny house where Thoreau and Ralph Waldo Emerson would find solace to write, think and live simply. It is a place where anyone could sit, and find their own sense of inner being. The walls are stacked neatly with books, two chairs sit by a stunning fireplace, and the kitchen is a place where you’d feel proud cooking a meal for two. (source)
Gulf Island Cabin
Here’s another stunning combination of modern architecture and rustic charm, built by Oldon Kundig Acrchitects. Located on an island in the San Juans of British Columbia, the exterior is made of metal which shields it from the elements. A wood-finished interior provides a cozy retreat from the weather, and the porch offers a place to enjoy it. (source)