Home Improvement
Living in a small house is not for everyone, but for some like Gregory Paul Johnson of Iowa City, Iowa, it’s a way of life. Johnson has been living in a 10 ft by 7 ft (about 3 m by 2 m) home for more than five years by choice. The national average for house size in 2007 was 2,521 square feet (234.21 square meters), which is more than 2,400 square feet (222.97 square meters) larger than Johnson’s home. However, there is a new trend of people choosing small spaces over larger dwellings, and this is known as the small house movement. This grassroots movement is a way of living more simply and using less space. While tiny houses of under 100 square feet (9.29 square meters) are certainly a part of the movement, the principles don’t only revolve around house size. The movement is more about the attitude of living life simply and as small as is comfortable for each person. This is not a one-size-fits-all approach since each person can have different needs.
The small house movement is an interpretation of each person’s definition of living more efficiently. There is no definitive definition of what is small and what constitutes a small house. A 4,000-square-foot (371.61 square meters) house could be considered small if the space is being used well. The movement has seen an increased popularity within the last five to seven years. The Small House Society, an organization started in 2002 to support the movement, has noticed an increase in traffic on its website from around 50 visitors five years ago to 1,200 to 1,500 visitors a day now.
People are drawn to the movement for a number of reasons, including economic and environmental factors. The confluence of an economic downturn, a housing crisis, and global warming has made people pay more attention to how much space they really need. In this article, we will explore the characteristics of a small house, the costs involved, and the people who are choosing to live more simply.
Characteristics of Tiny Houses
Most tiny houses range from under 100 square feet (9.29 square meters) to around 1,500 square feet (139.35 square meters). As square footage increases, the home layouts usually include more amenities. A common layout for a small house incorporates an open living space on the first floor, including a kitchen and bath, along with an upstairs sleeping area. Some small houses have multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, while others offer only a sleeping loft and a toilet/shower closet. Still, others don’t even come with bath and kitchen facilities as a standard component of the plan; they’re offered only as upgrades.
These purposeful design layouts are paired with space-saving interior features. Many plans incorporate built-in cabinetry and shelving for more storage space. Appliances tend to resemble those in an RV in smaller homes, while larger homes can have full-size appliances. Many of the homes’ manufacturers have even teamed with specific retailers to offer packages thoughtfully chosen for small house environments.
Some small units come with wheels, making them portable and perfect for those who want to travel. These tiny homes are smaller in size and provide fewer amenities than permanent homes. However, they offer the freedom to drive away with your home attached to your car like a snail. Before enjoying the benefits of a small house, it must be built. Construction options range from prefabrication to build-your-own models. Modular units are available as sections that are made in a factory and assembled on-site. The build-your-own option allows homeowners to choose materials and save money, but installation and delivery fees may apply.
Costs associated with tiny homes vary depending on factors such as location, size, and material. The initial cost of a home is only the start, as property taxes are based on the assessed value of the home. Maintenance or upkeep for a home can also impact living expenses. However, small houses cut down on time and energy needed for household chores, resulting in savings of both money and time. Some manufacturers use green materials such as structurally insulated panels with high insulation values and offer solar packages for the roof. The small house movement is gaining popularity among those who value economic and lifestyle benefits.
The Growing Market for Tiny Houses
Tiny houses are becoming increasingly popular across the United States, providing a more affordable option for first-time homebuyers, as well as a viable alternative for those looking to downsize, such as empty nesters or newly retired couples.
While most tiny house buyers are single or couples, some families are also choosing to live in limited square footage. For instance, Scott and Lolit Smith and their three children live in a 10 foot by 12 foot (approximately 3 meter by 4 meter) home that includes a loft. Although they have to make adjustments like cooking on a hot plate and putting sleeping items away during the day, they say the key is utilizing the outdoors.
Other buyers opt for the residential lifestyle of a neighborhood with shared open spaces. Cottage-style or clustered communities are emerging across the country, particularly in the Pacific Northwest, with individual lots opening to a communal central lawn. Some of these communities also have shared community centers or buildings. It’s important to note that many cities have special Cottage Housing Development ordinances regulating the look and the number of cottages related to the land used for these communities.
From 70-square-foot (6.50-square-meter) homes on wheels to living simply in 1,500 square feet (139.35 square meters), the small house movement is seen as a trend of the future. The small house movement has certainly offered a new perspective on housing options in the United States.
In addition, small cottage-style homes are part of the federally funded Alternative Housing Pilot Programs launched in the Gulf Coast region as an emergency housing option. These homes are being trialed as an alternative to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) trailers because they can be quickly and affordably built, offering a more permanent housing option. In Mississippi, more than 2,800 families are now living in Cottage units, which reflect the Gulf Coast’s architectural design style and range from 728 to 840 square feet (67.63 to 78.04 square meters).
Additional Information
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More Useful Links
- Small House Society
Sources
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- Corley, Cheryl. National Public Radio. “Tiny Houses Find a Friend on the Gulf Coast” May 15, 2006. (January 19, 2009) http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5366823
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On October 6, 2008, the stock reached 128 million according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The Federal Emergency Management Agency, a branch of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, provides disaster assistance to those in need. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development published a home buying guide in August 2004 which is still available for download on their website as of January 29, 2009.
FAQ
1. What is a tiny house?
A tiny house is a small, compact living space that typically ranges between 100-400 square feet. The movement towards tiny houses has gained popularity due to its minimalistic approach to living and the ability to reduce living expenses and environmental impact.
2. How much does it cost to build a tiny house?
The cost of building a tiny house largely depends on the materials used, the size of the house, and whether it is self-built or professionally built. On average, a self-built tiny house can cost between $10,000 – $30,000, while a professionally built tiny house can cost between $30,000 – $100,000.
3. Can you live in a tiny house full-time?
Yes, many people choose to live in tiny houses full-time. However, it is important to consider the lifestyle change and adjustment to living in a small space before committing to it as a long-term living arrangement.
4. How do you heat and cool a tiny house?
There are several options for heating and cooling a tiny house, including propane heaters, wood stoves, mini-split systems, and portable air conditioning units. The choice largely depends on the climate and personal preference.
5. How do you handle water and waste in a tiny house?
Water and waste management in a tiny house can be handled through a variety of methods, including composting toilets and rainwater collection systems. Some tiny houses also connect to a standard septic system or city water supply.
6. Can you travel with a tiny house?
Yes, many tiny houses are designed with the ability to be mobile and travel, typically on a trailer. However, it is important to check local laws and regulations regarding tiny house travel and parking.
7. What are the benefits of living in a tiny house?
The benefits of living in a tiny house include reduced living expenses, a simplified lifestyle, and a smaller environmental footprint. Tiny houses also promote a sense of community and encourage outdoor activities due to the limited indoor space.
Brody is a skilled craftsman and gardening expert. From renovating living spaces to cultivating lush gardens, Brody’s knowledge and passion shine through, inspiring readers to embark on their own home improvement and gardening journeys with confidence.
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