My name is Amber, and I’ve been living in a tiny house for four years. Nestled in the tranquil surroundings of Vancouver Island, this lifestyle has transformed my quality of life. As a minimalist at heart, having a tiny home aligns perfectly with my values, keeping life simple and focused. Sharing this space with my two beloved dogs, Chica and Romeo, has made it even more special. Chica is my little Chihuahua, while Romeo, my Mexican rescue, might be a cross between a Chihuahua and an Italian Greyhound. Together, we’ve built a life that feels both cozy and liberating.
Designing My Dream Tiny Home
My tiny home is 34 feet long, 8.5 feet wide, and boasts 413 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, including two loft bedrooms. Designing it was one of the most enjoyable parts of the journey. I spent countless hours researching layouts and builders before choosing Mint Tiny Homes, based in Delta, BC, to bring my vision to life. Downsizing from an apartment to this space required careful planning, but the clever design ensures that I never feel cramped. With board-and-batten siding, a metal roof, and a custom gutter system for rainwater collection, my home is as functional as it is charming.
The Little Details That Make a Big Difference
Living in a tiny home requires making the most of every inch. For example, my living room couch doubles as a single bed when you remove the cushions. I also added a fireplace after moving in, though I’d opt to have it custom-built into my next home for better integration. High vaulted ceilings, abundant windows, and strategically placed mirrors create an illusion of spaciousness.
My kitchen is my favorite space in the house. I’ve opted for open shelving to maintain an airy feel and installed full-size appliances to support my passion for cooking. An extendable countertop adds versatility for food prep or playing board games when friends visit. Each element serves a dual purpose, ensuring efficiency and functionality.
Multifunctional Spaces
My office space, where I spend most of my weekdays working and meeting clients online, is another example of thoughtful design. Storage is cleverly incorporated throughout the home. For instance, I have a dedicated closet for larger appliances and a “junk drawer” for miscellaneous items. Pet supplies, seasonal jackets, and hats all have their designated spots, ensuring everything stays organized and accessible.
A Bathroom That Works for Me
While compact, my bathroom is one of the more luxurious spaces in my tiny home. It features a spacious tub—perfect for relaxing after snowboarding or hiking—and a full-length shower. My composting toilet is efficient, saving liters of fresh water daily, and my sink area, while functional, could have been optimized for more storage. These small trade-offs are worth the convenience and comfort my bathroom provides.
Loft Bedrooms: Cozy and Functional
Initially, I was skeptical about loft bedrooms due to my claustrophobia. However, the design exceeded my expectations, and the space has become a cozy retreat. My main bedroom includes stairs for easy access, a meditation corner, and a skylight that fills the room with natural light. Though beautiful, the skylights were a costly addition I might skip in a future build. Heat can be an issue in loft spaces, so I’ve incorporated fans to improve air circulation. If I were to design another tiny home, I’d invest in radiant floor heating for better comfort during colder months.
Life in the Forest
Currently, my tiny home is nestled in a remote forest location with access to electricity and a well. Living in this environment comes with unique challenges, such as preventing pipes from freezing during winter. I use a heated hose designed for drinking water and rely on multiple heating systems, including an electric heat pump, a fireplace, and portable heaters. Despite these considerations, the connection to nature and the sense of freedom are unparalleled.
Financial Freedom and Sustainability
My tiny home cost $90,000 CAD, including extras like a dishwasher, skylights, and a custom tub. I also pay a monthly pad fee for my spot in the forest. The expenses are manageable, and the home’s low maintenance and eco-friendly features make it worth every penny. For instance, my rain barrel system allows me to collect and reuse water, reducing waste.
Balancing Work and Life
I’ve structured my work-from-home life around my passions. As a nutritionist, herbalist, and personal trainer, I support clients through private practice. I’m also involved in brand management for a pet herbal company, all of which I manage online. My tiny home’s design ensures I have a dedicated space for productivity and relaxation, striking the perfect balance between work and life.
Reflections on Tiny Living
Living in a tiny house has been easier and more rewarding than I anticipated. Cleaning takes only a fraction of the time compared to a traditional home, although the frequency might be higher due to the smaller space. Going on holidays in winter requires extra preparation to safeguard the plumbing, but these minor inconveniences pale in comparison to the benefits.
This lifestyle has taught me to appreciate simplicity and prioritize what truly matters. It’s hard to imagine moving back to a conventional home. While I dream about building another tiny house someday, this one has been an incredible first step into a minimalist, sustainable way of living.
Living the Minimalist Dream: My Journey in a Tiny House
In conclusion, my tiny house journey has been a transformative experience, aligning perfectly with my minimalist values and love for nature. The thoughtful design, eco-friendly features, and ability to adapt spaces for various needs have made this lifestyle not only practical but incredibly fulfilling. While challenges like managing winter plumbing and limited space exist, the rewards of freedom, simplicity, and sustainability far outweigh them.
For those curious about tiny living, I hope my story offers inspiration and insight into what’s possible. Whether it’s downsizing for financial freedom or embracing a simpler way of life, a tiny house can open doors to big opportunities. You can follow more of my journey and tips on Instagram @AmberNaturally. Thank you for joining me in exploring this extraordinary lifestyle!
Conclusion
Living in a tiny house has transformed my life, embracing minimalism, sustainability, and freedom. Every inch reflects my values, offering comfort, purpose, and simplicity. This journey proves that less truly is more, inspiring a fulfilling lifestyle focused on what matters most—joy, connection, and living intentionally in harmony with nature.
FAQS
How much does a tiny house cost?
My tiny house cost $90,000 CAD, including custom features like skylights, a dishwasher, and a large bathtub. Costs can vary depending on design, size, and additional features.
Is living in a tiny house challenging?
While it’s generally easier than I expected, there are unique challenges, like managing outdoor plumbing in colder climates. However, the benefits far outweigh these minor inconveniences.
How do you maximize space in a tiny home?
Thoughtful design is key. Multi-functional furniture, open shelving, and lofts help maximize space. Storage solutions, like hidden compartments and organized closets, keep everything tidy and accessible.
What are the advantages of tiny house living?
Tiny living promotes minimalism, sustainability, and financial freedom. It’s easier to clean, reduces waste, and fosters a closer connection with nature.
Do you recommend tiny house living?
Absolutely! It’s a fulfilling lifestyle for those seeking simplicity, freedom, and a deeper focus on what truly matters. Whether part-time or full-time, tiny living can be life-changing.