This year I decided I wanted to build my own tiny house after being inspired by many other examples such as Tumbleweed.
I knew very little about construction before embarking on this project but have learned along the way thanks to the library and the internet. I designed the building in SketchUp and intended for it to be relatively simple, oriented south to take advantage of passive solar heating in the winter, and be well-insulated.
The process has (unsurprisingly) taken a lot longer than I anticipated since it’s been a one man crew and I have another job. But, I’ve made good progress and below I’ve shared some of it. Cost total so far is $1,727.42.
Home building on a very small scale
Space is a premium in all types of homes, but the Tiny House movement glorifies homes which check in at around 100 square feet. Not... Read more
Frequently asked questions
Why?!?
I like the simplicity and efficieny of small living. A small space requires little energy and forces you to pare down your belongings. I also wanted to build my own house but liked where I lived so I used the small space that was available.
Where is this?
It’s being built on an urban lot in the Bay Area next to an existing home I own. I live cooperatively with five other people and the tiny house will be an addition to the small community.
Is this legal?
Yes and no. It’s a bit under 120 sq ft so in most counties it doesn’t require a building permit. However, our plans to live in it and our compost toilet would not be sanctioned. But our neighbors don’t mind, and it fits the neighborhood since most homes have a 150 sq ft garage on the rear property line.
And then I took a three month break from the project while I was out of town. Happily, I came back to see that my seeds had taken root and everything was still standing!
We’re living in the space and it feels great. It’s pleasantly warm inside using only the passive heat of the sun on its southern-facing wall. My next order of business is finalizing the electrical plan and running a new circuit!
Props……big fat PROPS!
Love, love, love, love, love! It is my dream to one day build and live in my own tiny house. Kudos to you for doing it! 🙂
That green roof is positively inspiring!
This is AMAZING! It makes me want to build one on the back of our little property and give it to my little brother to live in when he graduates from high school. He pretty much lives in his room, after all. 😛
One of the suggestions in A Pattern Language is that teenagers should have their own separate little houses in the back yard of the family home. You’re right — this would be perfect.
Love it!
This looks fantastic! I would totally live in that given the chance. Plus, that roof is awesome.
I’ve always wanted to have a tiny little nook of a house but now that I have 2 cats, a dog and a boyfriend who has more music equipment than I can even comprehend, it’s no longer an option. But maybe I can build something similar to this when we get our own property and I’ll use it as my studio…
fantastic!
It’s a great post and I am astonished to read that Pond pro 2000,Made in USA is as durable and esthetic waterproof that on roof you are spreading it for security purpose.
This is awesome! I’d love to see pics of the interior. I want to build something like this in the back garden, although don’t have the budget. Looking at building out of reclaimed front doors and pallets. Seen some really good examples.