This dual-purpose chair converts into a step ladder, making it ideal for tiny houses with lofts and limited storage space. Originally attributed to Benjamin Franklin, the design provides seating that transforms into a practical stepladder with a simple flip. Chair to Ladder Conversion
Full-time van dwelling requires solutions for heating, sleeping, and water systems. Experienced van dwellers have documented their approaches to these challenges, providing resources for those considering this lifestyle. Key Van Dwelling Topics Heating systems for winter van living Bed and mattress configurations Water systems for hygiene Storage solutions Stealth parking strategies Design Considerations Type: Van…
The Ochopee Post Office in Florida is considered the smallest post office in the United States. Originally an irrigation pipe shed for a tomato farm, it was pressed into service after a fire destroyed the town’s general store and post office in 1953. Ochopee Post Office Exterior
Tiny house kitchens require creative storage solutions to maximize limited counter and cabinet space. These examples demonstrate practical approaches to organizing cooking essentials in compact environments, from mobile homes to garage-style open shelving systems. Box Truck Kitchen with Slide-Out Drawers This mobile home kitchen features slide-out drawers with plastic containers installed above the water tank—a…
Patrick Dougherty creates large-scale sculptures from woven saplings and branches, demonstrating the structural possibilities of natural materials. His installations, known as “stickwork,” appear in arboretums, museums, and public spaces worldwide. Video: Loop de Loop Installation This installation at Morris Arboretum showcases Dougherty’s technique of weaving flexible saplings into habitable-scale structures. Design Details Artist: Patrick Dougherty…
The Oberon Fourplex by Monolithic demonstrates how dome construction can create multi-unit housing in a single structure. This round building contains four separate 201 sq ft studio apartments, totaling just 804 sq ft for all four units combined. Fourplex Dome Exterior Images via Monolithic.com
Living in a tiny house doesn’t mean giving up music. Several instruments work well in small spaces, from hand drums to steel tongue drums to digital options. The key is choosing instruments that are compact, store easily, and won’t overwhelm your neighbors with volume. Djembe Hand Drums The djembe (pronounced JEM-bay) is a West African…
The EZ Traveler is a compact travel trailer that weighs approximately 1,400 pounds, making it towable by minivans and small SUVs. Unlike teardrop trailers, this design offers enough interior height to stand up inside while maintaining a lightweight, single-axle configuration. Features include rooftop air conditioning, an awning, and a small kitchenette. EZ Traveler Mini RV…
Monolithic dome homes offer a unique approach to tiny house construction using reinforced concrete shells. These structures can be built small enough for single occupancy or scaled up for larger applications. Beyond housing, the same construction method works for vacation rentals, affordable housing developments, micro villages, storage facilities, manufacturing buildings, churches, schools, and garages. Monolithic…
This simple shed built directly onto a trailer demonstrates how a basic structure on wheels can serve multiple purposes. Located at the Sockburn Hall Project in northeast England, this portable shed functions as a part-time office and guest accommodation for a community restoration project. Shed on Wheels Exterior
