I had a lot of opposition when I first started to talk about tiny houses. This was well before they became so popular. In fact, it took me a long time to even convert one person on what a great idea it was! I would watch my friends and family as I told them my plans to live in 136 square feet and see their stunned, dazed look. Some would nervously laugh or their eyes would glaze over and roll back in their heads. It was clear that they ALL thought I was crazy!
Well, I can tell you that I do not regret my decision in any way. Aside from my tiny house being just so darn cute, it's very functional, built great, insurance and utilities are cheap and there is NO mortgage!! I can relocate at any time, I use every square inch of the space (talk about efficiency!) and it's easy to clean and maintain. I am able to work part-time and still live in a great little house in a beautiful location. I now have the simple life I was craving. If it's your dream to live "tiny", have faith in your self and don't listen to the nay-sayer's!
In the above paragraph you can see why I chose to live in a tiny house, but there are many other reasons that people may choose to live smaller. Economic reasons are high on the list. Times are tough for many people in this country and scaling down is a great way to live comfortably while paying the bills. Do we really need a huge house with stuff that we rarely use? Most of us don't realize how much we have accumulated until it's time to move, then it can be quite scary!
Another main reason to downsize your life is environmental. Needless to say, the world's resources are shrinking and the population is growing. Many of us think that it's time to do our part by reducing our waste and water consumption and not being a part of the national consumerism epidemic. Living in a tiny house really keeps a lid on "living large" as many American's have been programmed to do in past generations. What are your reasons for wanting to live in a tiny house?
Well, let's get started.
So...your decision is made. You want a tiny house, what now? In order to be truly happy in your space, it needs to function for you. We are all different. What is important to me, may not be to you. You need to make sure all your "Have To's" are covered. Make a list of these things.
Example: For me, it had to have..
- a tub
- a washer/dryer
- room for my pet
- a deck
- a 3 foot closet
- awning windows
- a dormer in the loft
- a screen door
Now it's time to do some homework. What are your "Have To's"? Can you identify what it would take for you to live comfortably in a small space? I hope this helped you understand that making a priority list of what you need is the first step to creating a tiny house you can live in happily.
Next time, let's talk about just how much space is needed for each function, floor plans and furniture verses built-in's.
I would love to hear your comments or questions!
When can we visit? I promise we won't stay the night, but would love to stop by. Take care!
ReplyDeleteNancy, I am wondering about your awning windows? What made you want that type and how do they function for you? Thank you so much for all the information you put in your blog - it is so helpful!!! And you are a great writer, very enjoyable reading!
ReplyDeleteHi Karen,
DeleteI love my awning windows! There were a couple of reasons for going with them. You get a lot more ventilation, if it rains you can still have them open, they are easier to clean & I like the look of them. And though I would have loved to get wood ones the vinyl are easier to maintain & were cheaper. Would definitely choose them again.
Did you notice the window with the air conditioner is a traditional single hung. All the rest are awning style except for the front window & tiny window above the front overhang. Those do not open.
And thanks for the encouragement! :)