What is a 'Tiny' House?
Usually referring to homes under 700 square feet in size, tiny houses have been gaining popularity in the U.S. and abroad in recent years for a variety of reasons. A little over ten years ago, designer/builder Jay Shafer created some of the first micro-tiny (parking space size) homes on wheels that exhibited great quality and charm, yet were fully livable for one or two people to call home full-time.
A tiny house’s ability to adapt to many sites and uses, to relocate and be many things to many people throughout life’s stages--this makes it a uniquely sustainable building. Add to that its energy efficiency (tight envelope) use of nontoxic and hard-wearing, quality materials, and airy design features, and you have a flexible abode with obvious appeal!
Some ideas for what a tiny house can serve as over the years: Mother-in-law suite, space for cottage industry, art/music studio, home office, meditation retreat, man/lady cave, college housing, teen quarters, vacation/seasonal housing, rental unit/B&B, extra room you need now but can take with you when your house sells or you decide to downsize
Not all Tiny Houses are moveable, but the Bisbee is the variety that is permanently attached to its trailer foundation: it is classified as a USDOT road legal ‘Recreational Vehicle’ which does not require a special permit, just a license plate. See our links page for many blogs and articles about tiny house owners which detail the many incarnations of where to park, how to move, and general love from the international movement and community for small living.
A tiny house’s ability to adapt to many sites and uses, to relocate and be many things to many people throughout life’s stages--this makes it a uniquely sustainable building. Add to that its energy efficiency (tight envelope) use of nontoxic and hard-wearing, quality materials, and airy design features, and you have a flexible abode with obvious appeal!
Some ideas for what a tiny house can serve as over the years: Mother-in-law suite, space for cottage industry, art/music studio, home office, meditation retreat, man/lady cave, college housing, teen quarters, vacation/seasonal housing, rental unit/B&B, extra room you need now but can take with you when your house sells or you decide to downsize
Not all Tiny Houses are moveable, but the Bisbee is the variety that is permanently attached to its trailer foundation: it is classified as a USDOT road legal ‘Recreational Vehicle’ which does not require a special permit, just a license plate. See our links page for many blogs and articles about tiny house owners which detail the many incarnations of where to park, how to move, and general love from the international movement and community for small living.
