Owning a home is a dream that resonates deeply with many of us, and for Catherine and her husband Hayden, that dream has come to life in the most magical way. Their tiny house, nestled in a serene setting, is not just a structure but a reflection of their shared vision, creativity, and commitment to a simpler, yet richly fulfilling lifestyle.
A Pinterest-Inspired Dream
Catherine and Hayden’s tiny house seems like it has jumped straight out of a Pinterest board. From the greenhouse addition to the beautifully styled interiors, every detail feels curated yet personal. “We had a Pinterest board for ideas, but we made it our own,” Catherine shares.
The greenhouse, built entirely by Hayden, has been a game-changer. It provides additional living space and serves as a semi-outdoor area where nature and comfort coexist harmoniously. The couple enjoys year-round relaxation here, whether it’s cozy evenings with blankets or summer meals under the setting sun. It’s also a practical space for drying laundry and a play area for Catherine’s daycare dogs.
A Tiny House with a Big Heart
The tiny house itself measures 3 meters wide, 10 meters long, and about 4.1 meters tall. With the addition of a 6-meter deck, the couple has effectively doubled their living area. Their parking spot, shared with kind neighbors who feel like family, adds to the charm. Located on a serene property, the space offers privacy and breathtaking views of the city skyline—a perfect vantage point for fireworks on special occasions.
Designing for Style and Functionality
Stepping inside the house is like entering an enchanted cottage. Catherine’s eye for detail shines through in every corner. From dried flowers and succulents to a cohesive color palette dominated by white, her touch is evident. The couple has balanced personal preferences beautifully, with Hayden’s minimalist tendencies complementing Catherine’s love for cozy aesthetics.
The layout was meticulously planned to maximize space and light. The decision to stack the bedrooms at one end allowed for a spacious living room with high ceilings, making the home feel far larger than its dimensions suggest. A feature window at one end floods the space with natural light and offers uninterrupted views of the outdoors.
Making It a Home
Catherine’s gallery wall, a tribute to family artists and beloved pets, adds a deeply personal touch. The cleverly disguised television blends seamlessly into the décor, while the custom-built couch, crafted by Hayden, provides storage and transforms into a larger seating area when needed.
Their kitchen, designed for practicality, prioritizes counter space over a traditional stovetop. Instead, they rely on appliances like an Instant Pot and a microwave, hidden behind sleek cabinetry. The countertops, chosen after months of searching, tie the space together with their understated elegance.
Living in Harmony with Dogs and Nature
As an avid dog lover and daycare provider, Catherine has tailored the home to accommodate her furry companions. From princess steps for her tiny dogs to spacious play areas, the home is as much a haven for them as it is for the couple.
The surrounding land offers opportunities for outdoor activities, gardening, and relaxation. Catherine’s love for flowers ensures that the garden is always in bloom, adding vibrant colors and life to the space.
Customizing for Comfort
Upstairs, Hayden’s home office and a guest bedroom demonstrate thoughtful use of vertical space. While the guest room ceiling height may require taller visitors to stoop, it’s rarely used and remains a convenient addition.
The bathroom, tucked efficiently under the stairs, features a composting toilet and a walk-in shower. Catherine’s insistence on an open shower wall instead of a curtain or glass panel has resulted in a functional and stylish space.
The pièce de résistance is the master bedroom, dominated by a luxurious super king bed. Catherine describes it as a non-negotiable feature, ensuring restful sleep and plenty of room for the couple and their overnight doggy guests. Surrounded by built-in storage and cross-ventilated by well-placed windows, it’s a perfect retreat.
A Labor of Love
Catherine and Hayden’s tiny house journey has been a labor of love. From its bare-bones beginnings to the fully realized home it is today, every weekend project has brought them closer to their dream. They’ve lived in the house for three years, constantly tweaking and improving the space to suit their needs.
The couple’s budget-conscious approach, with Hayden taking on much of the building work himself, kept costs reasonable. At an estimated $150,000, including the conservatory addition, their home is a testament to the value of patience, resourcefulness, and creativity.
Looking Ahead
As they look to the future, Catherine and Hayden are content with their tiny home lifestyle. They don’t plan to have children, making the space perfectly suited for their long-term needs. The single-level design ensures that they can age comfortably in place, while the upstairs areas provide flexibility for guests.
Catherine envisions focusing more on the garden than the home itself, though she admits she’s always tweaking something. For now, the couple is looking forward to enjoying the summer, with flowers in full bloom and more outdoor meals in their idyllic conservatory.
A Home of Their Own
Owning their tiny house has given Catherine and Hayden the freedom to truly make the space their own. Without the pressure of land ownership, they’ve poured their hearts into creating a home that reflects their values and lifestyle.
This tiny house is more than just a dwelling—it’s a sanctuary filled with light, love, and a whole lot of character. From its practical design to its enchanting aesthetic, it’s a shining example of how dreams, when pursued with dedication and creativity, can become reality.
Catherine and Hayden’s tiny home is a story of inspiration for anyone dreaming of a simpler, more intentional way of living.
FAQS
What inspired Katherine and Hayden to build their tiny home?
They were inspired by a desire for sustainable living, a smaller environmental footprint, and the freedom that comes with minimalist living. Their creative vision made their tiny home a reflection of their values and style.
How much space does the tiny home provide?
The home is carefully designed to maximize every square foot, with innovative storage solutions and multifunctional spaces that make it feel spacious and comfortable despite its compact size.
What is the most unique feature of their tiny home?
The conservatory stands out as a stunning feature, serving as a serene, light-filled retreat where they can enjoy nature while remaining cozy indoors.
What advice do Katherine and Hayden have for aspiring tiny home builders?
They recommend focusing on what truly matters to you, planning meticulously, and embracing creativity. Building a tiny home is not just about downsizing but creating a space that enriches your life.
Conclusion
Katherine and Hayden have created a truly enchanting tiny home that perfectly balances functionality with character. From the thoughtfully designed conservatory to the personalized interior touches, every aspect of this space reflects their love and creativity. Their home is not just a place to live but a testament to what’s possible when dreams meet determination. This is more than a tiny house—it’s a sanctuary filled with warmth, light, and life.