The tiny house movement in the UK is a trend that originated in the States but is catching on here very quickly. The idea of “bigger is better” is dying out, and the concept of “good things come in small packages” is taking its place.
But what exactly is the tiny house movement and why is it proving to be so popular? We aim to explore that very topic in this blog and explain how to join the movement.
What is the Tiny House Movement?
In an architectural sense, it’s exactly how it sounds; you live in a tiny house. But there’s so much more to the concept than having a small home. The tiny house movement has become a social trend, a way of keeping life as simple as possible.
We’ve developed into a world obsessed with consumerism, but many people don’t want their lives to coincide with the notion that possessions equal happiness. On a much grander scale, the tiny house movement in the UK and across the world is about relieving yourself from pointless burdens.
Sustainable living, minimalism and financial freedom go hand in hand with the tiny house concept, which is why it’s proved so popular with environmentalists and those who are tired of the rat race.
There are many different types of tiny homes, so it’s definitely not a one-size-fits-all approach. Examples can include:
- Repurposed shipping containers
- Caravans
- Yurts
Tiny House Benefits
A stripped-back way of life removes a lot of everyday pressures, and those who are a part of the tiny house movement in the UK see many benefits. They include:
A Low Purchase Price
There’s no denying the country is in the middle of a housing crisis. Demand greatly outweighs supply, and the amount of money needed to purchase a property is unattainable for many.
When you consider the average UK house price in 2021 reached £268,349, it’s no surprise that many are turning towards converted shipping containers for homes instead. Our range of tiny houses have a starting price of £41,999, which can represent a saving of £226,350 against a conventional home.
An Environmentally Cost-Effective Way of Life
A tiny house provides a lot of opportunities for saving money. Firstly, you have to think very carefully about what you buy, as you don’t want to take up space unnecessarily. This cuts a lot of wastage as well, and has led to ingenious ideas such as multi-use furniture.
Secondly, tiny houses need much less power, water and gas than traditional properties. Many people choose to implement their own utility solutions such as solar power to be more self-sufficient and reduce their carbon footprint.
Most tiny houses are situated in large, open environments, which lends its hand perfectly to growing your own vegetables and tending your own livestock. Not only does this save money and help the environment, you have the added benefit of knowing exactly where your food has come from.
Improved Mental Health
You can put a tiny house anywhere (permission pending), and the beautiful, sprawling countryside is favourite among the community. When you leave the concrete jungle behind, you reconnect with nature and learn to appreciate the sound of bird calls over car horns, and the sight of trees swaying in the breeze over the sight of phone notifications.
How to Build a Tiny House
Constructing a tiny house that fully meets your needs will depend on a variety of factors such as:
- Budget
- Skill level
- The suitability of your location
At Live Off Grid, we have the skills needed to create a stunning tiny home inline with your budget. All you have to do is let us know what you need and where it will be situated.
Here’s our process:
- Planning: Before we start construction, we need to know what you have in mind for your tiny house. We work with you to create a blueprint, ensuring you have everything you need to live life your way.
- Sourcing a shipping container: A pre-used container means a lower purchase price, but may need more upcycling to make it fit for habitation. If preferred, we can find a brand new container to make your dream home.
- Architecture: Creating a habitat safe to live in from a shipping container takes a lot of know-how. Removing sections of the metal panelling for windows and doors can affect the structural integrity, so we reinforce the container with steel beams and welding. We also add insulation to keep the temperature of your new home regulated.
- Moving the container: Relocating a shipping container can be a simple job or a tough one depending on where it will go. Excavators and cranes may be needed, which should be discussed with local residents, the council and the landowner.
- Furnishings: We furnish tiny homes made from shipping containers with furniture from LOFT. Where possible, we stick to natural colours and materials to help with mindfulness and to better protect the environment.
Utilities
Being off grid doesn’t mean you have to live without power or struggle to find water. Knowing how to build a house also means being able to install and access all the necessary amenities.
Electricity
There are many different ways to generate electricity for a tiny house made from a shipping container. If you’re based near a residential area, conventional mains power could be the easiest option. However, many people who live off grid want to literally do so. Alternative options we can install for you include:
- Solar
- Wind
- Hydro-electric
Water
As with electricity, there are a few different routes to take. Being close to a residential area can help when it comes to connecting to the water mains, but being near a natural water source can help, too. We can also install a water catchment tank to store and recycle rainwater.
Get on Board With the UK’s Tiny House Movement
Constant pressures from everyday life have driven the tiny house movement in the UK, and it’s easy to see why so many have embraced it. There’s no judgement when living off grid, only peace and tranquility combined with a few modern luxuries to create the perfect lifestyle.
If you’ve become enamoured with the movement yourself, get in touch with a member of our team, and let’s get to work on the next great chapter of your life.
