Hello, my name is Jen, and welcome to my tiny home. My journey into the world of tiny living began as a quest for simplicity and tranquility, and it has blossomed into a full-fledged homestead project. Today, I’m excited to take you on a tour of my tiny home, share how I’ve tailored it to meet my needs, and provide a glimpse into the sustainable lifestyle I’m building here.
Downsizing for a Purpose
When I decided to transition into tiny living, I had to make some significant lifestyle changes, starting with downsizing my belongings. It wasn’t an easy task, especially since I used to be a hoarder. However, this process of decluttering and simplifying was liberating and essential to creating the peaceful environment I envisioned. My tiny home has been thoughtfully designed to maximize storage while keeping everything organized and out of sight, helping me maintain a calm and clutter-free space.
The Heart of the Home: My Kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of my home. To ensure it was functional, I designed it with counters on both sides, providing ample workspace for cooking. I included a flip-up counter for extra flexibility, and my farmhouse sink is a charming yet practical touch. Instead of a traditional stainless-steel sink, I chose something more rustic to fit the aesthetic I love.
For appliances, I opted for a TW Burer electric cooktop that can be stored away when not in use. I also installed a convection oven instead of a microwave and a full-size refrigerator to accommodate my needs. The kitchen features plenty of pantry storage and soft-close cabinets, ensuring a serene and noise-free experience while cooking. These cabinets also help keep my belongings hidden, maintaining the clean and organized look I prefer.
Creating Functional Spaces
The dining area is a cozy spot that was once part of the living room. By adding a proper living room, I transformed this space into a dedicated dining area. I chose a fold-out table with chairs that can be stored away, making it easy to switch between having a quiet meal or hosting guests.
My living room is part of a three-phase project. Initially, this space served as my business office, but I’ve since moved the office into my mobile home. Now, it’s a comfortable area for relaxation, complete with a couch that converts into a futon. In the future, this room will become my bedroom as I age, making my tiny home adaptable to my changing needs.
The Bathroom: Compact and Efficient
The bathroom, often one of the smallest rooms in a home, plays a crucial role in daily life. Designing a compact and efficient bathroom is both an art and a science, requiring thoughtful consideration of space, functionality, and aesthe
Smart Storage Solutions
Storage is key in a tiny home, and my staircase doubles as a storage unit. Each step opens up to reveal hidden compartments, providing space for pantry items and even a ventilated litter box for my cats. The design includes a computer fan to minimize odors, ensuring a fresh and pleasant living environment. For safety and aesthetics, I’ll eventually add a rustic handrail to complement the rest of the house.
A Cozy Bedroom and Cat Loft
My bedroom is a 10’ x 8’ loft designed with enough ceiling height to sit comfortably on the bed. Initially, the bed was on the floor, but I later added a platform for under-bed storage. The loft includes two egress windows for emergency exits and an escape ladder. A large dresser provides plenty of storage for my clothes, making it easier to stay organized.
For my four cats, I created a dedicated loft space complete with litter boxes and a catwalk that connects to my bedroom. Hopper windows in their loft let them enjoy the view outside while lounging comfortably.
Building a Homestead
When I purchased my property in Tennessee, I envisioned transforming it into a food forest. Over the past two and a half years, I’ve expanded my gardens, built raised beds with free scrap lumber, and shifted from in-ground gardening to raised gardening, which has been far more successful. The result is a thriving garden that produces abundant and healthy food.
In addition to the garden, I’ve built a chicken coop that houses 21 chickens. The coop includes a separate “sick pen” to isolate unwell chickens and a space for raising chicks before introducing them to the flock. I’m eagerly awaiting the day when all my hens begin laying, as their farm-fresh eggs are a treat for family, friends, and even local customers.
A Vision for Community
My ultimate goal is to create a peaceful and sustainable space for myself and others. As I develop my food forest, every plant serves a purpose—whether it’s edible, medicinal, or educational. I dream of turning this homestead into a community where people can learn about sustainable living and take inspiration from the tranquility I’m building here.
Advice for Going Tiny
If you’re considering a transition to tiny living, my biggest piece of advice is to plan and research thoroughly. Even with a year of preparation, there were still unexpected challenges, but the time I invested in planning made the process much smoother. Be patient with yourself, adapt to changes, and embrace the journey of simplifying your life.
Looking Ahead
Each week, month, and year brings new progress to my tiny homestead. While the transformation into a fully-fledged food forest and community will take time, I’m excited about the journey and the impact it will have on myself and others. Thank you for joining me on this tour of my tiny home and homestead. If you’d like to follow my journey, you can find me on social media through the links in the description below.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How did you plan for tiny living? I spent a year researching and planning before transitioning to tiny living. This involved studying designs, making lists of essential items, and figuring out how to downsize effectively.
2. What challenges did you face while downsizing? Downsizing was tough because I used to be a hoarder. The process required me to be honest about what I truly needed and let go of items I no longer used.
3. How do you manage storage in your tiny home? I designed my home with plenty of hidden storage solutions, like a storage staircase and under-bed compartments. I also prioritized closed cabinets over open shelving to keep everything organized and out of sight.
4. What advice do you have for someone considering a food forest? Start small and learn as you go. Research plants suited to your area and focus on creating a balanced ecosystem with edible, medicinal, and beneficial plants. Patience and planning are key.
Conclusion
Living in a tiny home and building a food forest homestead has been a transformative journey, teaching me the value of simplicity, sustainability, and community. Downsizing my life was challenging but rewarding, allowing me to focus on what truly matters. From my carefully designed tiny home to my expanding gardens and chicken coop, every aspect of this project reflects my commitment to living intentionally and harmoniously with nature.
This homestead is not just a personal retreat but a vision for the future—a place where people can come to learn, share, and grow together. While there is still much to be done, each step forward brings me closer to realizing this dream. Whether you’re considering tiny living, starting a garden, or simply seeking inspiration for a simpler lifestyle, I hope my journey encourages you to take the leap. Remember, it’s not about perfection; it’s about progress and finding joy in the process.