Welcome to a world where luxury meets simplicity. Imagine living in a sleek, modern home that feels like it’s straight out of a high-end magazine but comes without the staggering price tag. For those dreaming of a lifestyle free from the burden of a mortgage, Nico’s tiny house offers the perfect inspiration. Nestled in a tiny house community in California, this residence combines the elegance of modern mansions with the comfort and intentionality of minimalist living.
A Dream Reimagined
Nico’s journey began in France, where he grew up with Vietnamese parents. Moving to the United States at the age of 16, he spent two decades in Ohio before deciding it was time for a change. Like many, he had spent years working tirelessly just to cover the cost of living. Reflecting on the meaning of the French word “mortgage,” which translates to “death pledge,” Nico realized he didn’t want to devote his life to endless payments.
“Why not just have a house that’s paid off?” Nico wondered. “Be humble, live small.” With this mindset, he set out to design a home that prioritized both freedom and sophistication. In 2017, he built his tiny house from scratch. Armed with an iPad for designing floor plans and a team of two workers, Nico transformed a 28-foot trailer into a stunning home. The entire project took eight to ten months and cost less than $100,000.
A Tour of Tiny Lux
First Impressions
As you step into Nico’s tiny home, the first thing that strikes you is the brightness and modern aesthetic. The white interior provides a neutral canvas, enhanced by customizable Philips Hue lighting. “Everything is white, so whatever color you play with, the house becomes that color,” Nico explains. Whether you prefer soft pink tones or vibrant blues, the lighting transforms the ambiance to suit your mood.
Living Room Magic
The living room is a testament to clever design. Multi-functional furniture maximizes the space. A sleek table can be adjusted to various heights, serving as a desk, dining table, or even an outdoor piece. Beneath a comfortable sofa lies hidden storage. For added coziness, Nico installed an ethanol fireplace, which provides warmth without producing odors.
At the heart of the living area is a hydraulic queen-sized bed. Ingeniously designed to fit the space perfectly, it descends smoothly without disturbing the other furniture. High ceilings—13 feet—give the room an expansive feel, and hidden compartments around the bed offer ample storage. Electric blackout blinds add a touch of luxury, making it easy to create a serene atmosphere at any time.
A Chef’s Kitchen
The kitchen is a minimalist’s dream. A white waterfall countertop exudes elegance, while hidden outlets maintain a clutter-free appearance. All cabinets are handle-free, opening with a gentle push for a streamlined look.
Every detail has been carefully thought out. The matte black fixtures, a Kohler sink with built-in accessories, and an induction cooktop enhance both functionality and style. A reverse osmosis water filter ensures clean drinking water. Even the refrigerator is unique, with a high-gloss white design from Bosch that seamlessly blends into the aesthetic.
Bathroom Bliss
Nico’s bathroom is nothing short of luxurious. A large mirror with built-in lighting offers perfect illumination. The centerpiece is a European incinerating toilet, which eliminates waste by converting it into ash. This innovative solution removes the need for a traditional black water tank, making maintenance easy and odor-free.
A whirlpool bathtub with jets and light therapy adds a spa-like touch, while a rain shower and wand provide versatility. Storage cabinets throughout the bathroom ensure that all essentials are neatly tucked away. Behind one panel lies the utility area, housing the electric panel and water tank, cleverly concealed for a clean look.
Loft Workspace
The loft area, accessible via a telescopic ladder, serves as a versatile workspace. A daybed offers a cozy spot for relaxation, while windows on three sides provide natural light and picturesque views. For Nico, this space doubles as an editing station for his creative projects, complete with an iMac and comfortable furnishings.
Outdoor Oasis
One of Nico’s favorite features is the rooftop deck. Accessible through a door in the loft, this space is perfect for morning tai chi, yoga, or meditation. Custom-welded railings fold down for easy transport, and the deck’s slatted design provides privacy while allowing sunlight to filter through.
The lower deck, used for workouts and gatherings, includes hidden storage beneath—a thoughtful way to maximize utility without sacrificing aesthetics. Nico has even created a small Japanese garden with a fountain, enhancing the tranquil vibe of the outdoor area.
A Life of Intentional Living
For Nico, this tiny house represents more than just a place to live. It’s a lifestyle choice that prioritizes freedom, mindfulness, and creativity. By eliminating the financial stress of a traditional mortgage, he has found time to explore his passions and embrace a more intentional way of living.
“Life shouldn’t be about going to work, making money, and paying rent,” Nico says. “It should be about finding something you love and going for it.”
Every element of Nico’s home reflects this philosophy. From the minimalist kitchen to the meditative outdoor spaces, Tiny Lux is a haven of purposeful design. By combining luxury with practicality, Nico has redefined what it means to live well.
Lessons for Aspiring Tiny Homeowners
Nico’s journey offers valuable insights for anyone considering the tiny house lifestyle:
- Prioritize Functionality: Every piece of furniture and fixture in Nico’s home serves multiple purposes, making the most of limited space.
- Invest in Quality: From the high-end toilet to the durable rooftop deck, Nico chose materials and appliances that ensure longevity and comfort.
- Embrace Minimalism: By keeping the design clean and clutter-free, Nico created a space that feels open and inviting.
- Personalize Your Space: Whether through customizable lighting or a rooftop meditation area, make your home reflect your passions and lifestyle.
Conclusion
Nico’s Tiny Lux is more than a home; it’s a symbol of freedom and innovation. By blending the elegance of modern design with the practicality of tiny living, he has created a sanctuary that inspires others to rethink their approach to housing. In a world where mortgages often dictate life choices, Nico’s story reminds us that it’s possible to live luxuriously without breaking the bank.
If you’ve ever dreamed of downsizing while upgrading your quality of life, Nico’s journey proves that the tiny house movement offers endless possibilities. From the thoughtful interior to the serene outdoor spaces, Tiny Lux stands as a beacon of what intentional living can achieve.
FAQS
1. Why did Nico choose to live in a tiny house?
Nico wanted to escape the stress of a mortgage and live a simpler, debt-free life. He desired a home that was small, humble, and luxurious, enabling him to focus on creativity and personal freedom.
2. How much did it cost Nico to build his tiny home?
The total cost of building the tiny home was under $100,000, which included luxurious materials and custom designs.
3. How long did it take to build the tiny house?
It took Nico approximately 8 to 10 months to design and construct the home with the help of two workers.
4. What makes Nico’s tiny house luxurious?
The house features high-end materials, a modern design inspired by five-star hotels, smart home technology, space-saving innovations, and premium features like a waterfall countertop, electric blinds, and an incinerator toilet.
5. What are the standout space-saving features in the house?
Key space-saving features include:
- A pull-down hydraulic bed.
- Multi-functional furniture like a transforming dining table.
- Hidden storage under the sofa, bed, and outdoor deck.
6. What kind of toilet is installed in the tiny house?
Nico uses a European incinerator toilet, which burns waste into ash without using water, eliminating the need for a black water tank and reducing maintenance.
7. How does the rooftop deck enhance the tiny home experience?
The rooftop deck provides a relaxing space to meditate, practice yoga, and connect with nature. It’s designed with collapsible railings and can be removed when relocating the house.
8. What eco-friendly or minimalist features does the house include?
The house uses an induction cooktop for energy efficiency, a reverse osmosis water filter, and has been designed to maximize natural light and airflow to reduce energy usage.
9. What smart home technologies are integrated into the house?
Nico’s tiny home includes Philips Hue smart lighting, electric blinds, and an iPad control panel that manages lights and other house functions. The setup can also integrate with Alexa.
10. Where is Nico’s tiny home located?
Nico’s home is parked in a tiny house community in California, specifically at Tiny House Block, where he enjoys a peaceful and nature-filled environment.