Gypsy wagons have a romantic appeal that most tiny dwellings can only aspire to. There’s something about the curved rooflines, the compact self-contained interiors, and the connection to a centuries-old nomadic tradition that makes them feel less like a house and more like a story you can sleep inside.
Wooly Wagons, based in Russiaville, Indiana, has been building custom gypsy wagons, sheep wagons, tiny houses, and mobile dwellings since 2008. Founded by Steve Auth — a craftsman with over 40 years of building experience and a background as a horse owner and rancher — the company specializes in lightweight, towable structures built with welded aluminum framing and spray foam insulation.
The wagon featured here is one of Wooly Wagons’ signature builds: a sheepherder-style gypsy wagon that packs a surprising amount of functionality into a footprint just 14 feet long and 8 feet wide.
Photos Courtesy of Wooly Wagons
[continue reading…]
{ }
Dee Williams is one of the most recognized names in the tiny house movement, and her Don Vardo designs offer a beautiful alternative to traditional tiny houses. These gypsy-style caravans combine the aesthetic appeal of a tiny house on wheels with the functionality and easy mobility of a small camper.
Whether you’re looking for a writing studio, guest quarters, or a weekend getaway wagon, the vardo style offers something unique.
What is a Vardo?
Vardos are traditional horse-drawn wagons historically used by Romani people. Today, the term refers to small, ornate mobile dwellings that capture that classic caravan aesthetic. They’re a great alternative to:
- Traditional travel trailers
- Tent camping
- Teardrop campers
- Standard tiny houses on wheels
About Portland Alternative Dwellings (PAD)
PAD is a tiny house construction company based in Portland, Oregon, founded by Dee Williams and Katy Anderson. Katy is a licensed contractor with over 20 years of experience, while Dee runs Boxcar Woodcraft out of Olympia, Washington.
The organization focuses on building small spaces that are better for the environment, with all structures designed to be constructed on trailers for maximum mobility.
Common uses for PAD structures:
- Backyard office space
- Guest quarters
- Writing studios
- Retreats
- Camping trailers
Dee Williams’ Don Vardo Designs
Photo Credit: Portland Alternative Dwellings
[continue reading…]
{ }
