+all the tiny house terms you need to know
Welcome to our comprehensive Tiny Home Glossary – full of fundamentals for enthusiasts of compact, eco-friendly living. Understanding the terminology is the first step in deepening your appreciation of the tiny lifestyle.
In this glossary, we unravel the key terms and concepts that define the world of tiny homes. We’ll explore everything from distinctive architectural features to sustainable living practices, making it easier than ever to navigate conversations, make informed decisions, and truly embrace the spirit of tiny home living.
Let’s go, one term at a time.
Tiny Home Styles: Exploring the Architectural Wonders of Small Living
1. Tiny House: The term “tiny house” is quite literal – it refers to a small living space, typically less than 400 square feet. The core philosophy of the Tiny House Movement is to embrace minimalist lifestyle, decrease environmental impact, and focus more on life experiences rather than material possessions.
2. Tiny House on Wheels (THOW): As a subset of the tiny house, a Tiny House on Wheels offers the additional advantage of mobility. This style is perfect for individuals who love to travel or those who prefer a nomadic living lifestyle. Moreover, it provides a workaround for certain zoning laws and building codes in different regions.
3. Skoolie (US term): Skoolies represent an innovative take on compact living. They are school buses converted into mobile homes, complete with all the amenities of a traditional home. Skoolies personify the spirit of recycling and upcycling in the tiny house movement.
4. RV – Recreational Vehicle (US term): An RV is a motor vehicle or trailer with living quarters designed for accommodation. While not typically considered a “tiny house,” RV living shares the principles of mobility and compact living space. Some tiny home enthusiasts opt for RVs due to their ease of travel and widespread acceptance in campgrounds and parks.
5. Cabin: A cabin style tiny home echoes the rustic charm of traditional cabins. They’re often built with timber and blend seamlessly with nature, making them perfect for those seeking a green living experience in rural or woodland settings.
6. Yurt: With origins in Central Asia, yurts are round, tent-like dwellings that offer a unique spin on tiny homes. They are usually made of a wooden framework for easy assembly and disassembly, making them perfect for off-grid living.
7. Container Home: Container homes are made by upcycling shipping containers into liveable spaces. They are a testament to the sustainability feature of the tiny house movement, reducing waste and reusing materials in innovative ways.
8. Chalet: Inspired by the alpine cottages, chalet-style tiny homes often feature steep sloping roofs and generous use of wood. This style is popular among tiny home enthusiasts who favour a cozy, warm aesthetic.
Tiny Home Architectural and Design Features: Maximising Space and Comfort
1. Loft: In the realm of tiny homes, a loft typically refers to an elevated space accessed by stairs or a ladder. This design feature helps maximise vertical space, often serving as a bedroom or extra storage area. It’s a hallmark of space-saving furniture design intrinsic to tiny house living.
2. Net-Zero Home: A net-zero home generates as much energy as it consumes over a year, typically through renewable energy sources like solar power. This sustainability feature is often associated with tiny homes, contributing to their reduced carbon footprint and promoting green living.
3. Off-Grid: Off-grid tiny homes are designed to operate independently of public utilities, relying on alternate sources such as solar power and rainwater harvesting. These homes exemplify the sustainable and self-sufficient aspects of the tiny house movement.
4. ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit): Also known as granny flats or guest houses, ADUs are small, standalone units on the same grounds as a larger home. They’re becoming increasingly popular as a form of tiny home, especially in areas where zoning laws permit their use.
5. SIPs (Structural Insulated Panels): SIPs are a high-performance building system for residential and light commercial construction. The panels consist of an insulating foam core sandwiched between two structural facings. They’re often used in tiny home construction for their high energy efficiency and simple installation process.
6. Gable Roof: A gable roof is a classic roof shape with two sloping sides that come together at a peak. This type of roof is commonly found in tiny homes due to its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and the additional loft space it offers.
7. Clerestory Windows: These are high, vertically placed windows that allow natural light to penetrate deep into the tiny home, creating a sense of spaciousness and connection with the outdoors. These windows are a crucial design feature that enhance tiny home living.
8. Built-Ins: Built-ins are custom-built storage spaces or pieces of furniture that are part of the tiny home structure. They can range from built-in shelves, desks, or seating areas that help maximise space usage.
9. Murphy Bed: Named after its inventor, a Murphy bed is a bed that can be hinged at one end to store vertically against the wall. In tiny homes, Murphy beds are an ingenious solution to create multi-purpose spaces, allowing the same space to serve as a living area during the day and a bedroom at night.
10. Wet Bath: A wet bath is a bathroom design where the shower is not separated from the rest of the bathroom. Although it might require some adjustment for newcomers to tiny home living, wet baths save valuable space in tiny homes and simplify the plumbing needs.
Tiny Home Living and Lifestyle Terms: Adopting a Compact and Conscious Life
1. Minimalism: This lifestyle choice places emphasis on “less is more”. In the context of tiny home living, minimalism involves reducing material possessions to only the essentials, thereby simplifying life and reducing clutter.
2. Downsizing: Downsizing involves reducing the amount of personal possessions and living space. This term is often used when individuals or families decide to transition from a traditional home to a tiny house, and it involves thoughtful decision-making about what to keep, sell, donate, or discard.
3. Sustainability: Sustainability in the tiny house movement refers to practices that minimize harm to the environment. This includes using sustainable materials in construction, renewable energy sources for power, and implementing systems like composting toilets and rainwater harvesting.
4. Intentional Living: This philosophy encourages making conscious choices to live in alignment with one’s values and beliefs. In tiny home living, this can involve prioritising experiences over possessions, choosing a smaller home to reduce one’s carbon footprint, or using one’s home to facilitate a nomadic lifestyle.
5. Composting Toilet: A composting toilet is a system that treats human waste through composting and dehydration. It is a popular choice in tiny homes for its low water usage, suitability for off-grid living, and contribution to sustainability.
6. Rainwater Harvesting: This is the collection and storage of rainwater for use. In tiny homes, especially those that are off-grid, rainwater harvesting systems can provide water for various uses, helping to increase self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on public utilities.
7. Greywater: Greywater refers to the relatively clean wastewater from baths, sinks, washing machines, and other kitchen appliances. Tiny homes often incorporate graywater systems, which reuse this water for purposes like flushing toilets or irrigating plants, thereby promoting water conservation.
8. Off-the-Grid Living: Living off-the-grid means disconnecting from public utilities like water supply and electricity, and instead, generating these resources independently. This lifestyle is common among many tiny home dwellers who prefer a self-sufficient and sustainable lifestyle.
9. Solar Power: Many tiny homes are equipped with solar panels to generate electricity. Solar power is a clean, renewable energy source that reduces the tiny home’s carbon footprint and aligns with the movement’s sustainability ethos.
10. Tiny House Movement: This is a social and architectural movement advocating living simply in small homes. It promotes a shift in lifestyle, favouring experiences over material possessions, reducing environmental impact, and often leading to financial freedom.
11. Upcycling: Upcycling involves repurposing or transforming by-products, waste materials, or unwanted items into new materials or products of better quality or environmental value. It is commonly practiced in the tiny house community, seen in aspects like converting old school buses into homes (skoolies) or using reclaimed wood in construction.
12. Carbon Footprint: This term refers to the total amount of greenhouse gases produced directly or indirectly by an individual, organisation, event, or product. By their very nature, tiny homes often have a significantly lower carbon footprint than traditional homes due to their size, use of sustainable materials, and the lifestyle they promote
Legal and Financial Terms: Navigating the Essentials of Tiny Home Ownership
1. Zoning Laws (US term): Zoning laws regulate land use across specific regions, and they can impact where you’re allowed to place your tiny house. It’s crucial for prospective tiny home owners to research the zoning laws in their desired location as they can vary widely.
2. Building Codes: These are standards for the design and construction of buildings to ensure safety and health for the people using those buildings. Tiny homes, like all other types of homes, must comply with these codes.
3. Mortgage-Free: One appealing aspect of tiny homes is the potential to be mortgage-free. With their lower cost relative to traditional homes, tiny homes can often be bought outright or paid off much quicker, reducing financial stress and increasing financial freedom.
4. Tiny House Insurance: Just like any other home, tiny houses need to be insured. However, because of their unique characteristics, insuring a tiny house can be more complex. Certain certifications like RVIA can assist in this process.
5. Square Footage: This term refers to the total area of your home measured in feet. In the realm of tiny homes, clever design and efficient use of space are essential to make the most out of limited square footage.
6. Permanent Foundation: A permanent foundation refers to a type of foundation that is designed to support a structure in a fixed location. Some tiny houses are built on permanent foundations, while others, like tiny houses on wheels, are designed to be mobile.
7. Permitting: Depending on local laws and regulations, various permits may be required to build and install a tiny home. This process can be intricate, so it’s crucial to fully understand the permitting process in your area.
8. Equity: In the context of homes, equity refers to the difference between what your home is worth and what you owe on it. For tiny homeowners, this can grow over time as the home value appreciates or as they pay off any loans tied to the home.
Construction and DIY Terms: Building Your Dream Tiny Home
1. DIY Tiny House: DIY stands for “Do It Yourself”. In the context of tiny homes, this refers to individuals or families who choose to design and build their own tiny house, often as a way to save money and create a space that perfectly meets their needs.
2. Tiny House Kit: A tiny house kit includes pre-fabricated parts and a plan for building a tiny house. They’re a great option for those who prefer the DIY route but need some assistance with materials and construction plans.
3. Tiny House Builders: These are professionals specialising in designing and constructing tiny homes. They can offer a range of services, from fully custom builds to pre-designed models, and they understand the specific challenges and requirements of tiny house construction.
4. Tiny House Plans: These are comprehensive architectural and construction documents that detail the design of the tiny house. They include floor plans, elevation views, cross-sections, and other detailed drawings necessary for construction.
5. Trailer: Trailers are mobile platforms that can be used as a base for a tiny house. They’re particularly popular for THOWs (Tiny Houses On Wheels), offering mobility and flexibility for the owners.
6. Composting Toilet Installation: A key feature of many tiny homes, composting toilets convert human waste into compost, reducing water use and contributing to sustainability. Installation involves understanding the specific setup, ventilation, and maintenance needs.
7. Off-Grid Systems: This term refers to independent systems that provide resources like electricity, water, and heat, without relying on public utilities. Common off-grid systems in tiny homes include solar panels, composting toilets, rainwater collection, and wood stoves.
8. Tiny House Shell: A tiny house shell is a partially finished exterior of a tiny house, including the frame, roof, windows, doors, and exterior cladding. This can be a good start for DIY builders, allowing them to focus on the interior design and finishing.
9. Retrofitting: Retrofitting involves modifying something after it has been produced. In the tiny house world, this could include fitting an existing structure (like a school bus or shipping container) to serve as a liveable space.
10. Green Building Materials: These are building materials that are recycled, sustainable, and have a low environmental impact. For many in the tiny house community, using green building materials aligns with the goal of living a more sustainable lifestyle.
Tiny Home Styles and Features: Showcasing Character and Functionality
1. Pull-Out Furniture: This refers to furniture pieces designed to expand or retract as needed. Examples include pull-out beds, tables, or storage units. These pieces are perfect for maximising functionality in a tiny home.
2. Multi-Functional Spaces: These are spaces designed to serve more than one purpose, such as a living area that also serves as a dining room and workspace. In a tiny home, multi-functional spaces are the key to making the most out of the limited space.
3. Fold-Down Deck: This is a deck that can be folded up against the tiny house when not in use or during travel. It’s a great feature for THOWs (Tiny Houses On Wheels), providing additional outdoor living space.
4. Clerestory Windows: Clerestory windows are high, usually narrow windows above eye level. In tiny homes, they’re often used to increase natural light and improve ventilation, without compromising privacy.
5. Scandinavian Design: This design style is known for its simplicity, minimalism, and functionality. With a focus on light, airy spaces and multi-functional furniture, Scandinavian design is often a great fit for tiny homes.
6. Modern Tiny House: Modern tiny homes typically feature clean lines, open floor plans, large windows, and industrial materials. They blend the benefits of tiny home living with a contemporary aesthetic.
7. Rustic Tiny House: Rustic tiny homes often incorporate natural materials, warm colours, and a cozy, cabin-like feel. This style can be ideal for those looking to connect their living space with the natural surroundings.
8. Eco-Friendly Features: Many tiny homes are designed with eco-friendly features, such as solar panels, composting toilets, and green building materials. These features not only reduce the home’s environmental impact, but can also lead to ongoing cost savings.
9. Storage Solutions: Creative storage solutions are a must in a tiny home. This could include built-in shelving, storage stairs, loft spaces, and multi-functional furniture. Good storage design can help keep a tiny home organised and clutter-free.
Tiny Home Living: Embracing the Lifestyle
1. Financial Freedom: Because tiny homes are less expensive to purchase and maintain than traditional homes, they can offer a path to financial freedom. This means less money spent on a mortgage or rent, and more for other life pursuits.
2. Mobility: For those who live in a THOW (Tiny House On Wheels) or other mobile tiny homes, life can be an adventure. The ability to move your home as desired or necessary can provide a sense of freedom and flexibility.
3. Self-Sufficiency: Many tiny homes are built to function off-grid, with systems for solar power, water collection, and composting. This self-sufficiency can be both empowering and practical, providing independence from utility providers and the ability to live in more remote locations.
4. Community: Many tiny home owners find a sense of community, either in physical tiny home villages or online spaces where they can connect with others who share their values and lifestyle.
5. Simple Living: At its core, tiny home living is about simplicity. It’s about removing the excess and focusing on what truly matters. This can lead to a more mindful, intentional lifestyle.
6. Tiny Home Challenges: Despite the many benefits, tiny home living is not without its challenges. These may include legal issues, lack of space, or difficulties with off-grid systems. It’s important for those considering tiny home living to understand these potential challenges and be prepared to address them.
Tiny house glossary FAQ’s
Q: What is a builder in the context of tiny homes?
A: A builder is a person or company that constructs and assembles tiny homes.
Q: How much does it cost to build a tiny home?
A: The cost of building a tiny home can vary depending on various factors such as size, materials used, and location. On average, it can range from £20,000 to £150,000.
Q: What is the significance of wheels in tiny houses?
A: Wheels are an important feature of tiny houses on wheels, allowing them to be mobile and easily transported.
Q: What are building codes and how do they relate to tiny homes?
A: Building codes are regulations set by local municipalities that dictate the minimum standards for construction and safety. Tiny homes must comply with these codes in order to be legally built and occupied.
Q: What is a tiny house on wheels?
A: A tiny house on wheels, also known as a THOW, is a small house that is built on a trailer chassis, allowing it to be mobile and easily transported.
Q: What does it mean for a tiny home to be modular?
A: A modular tiny home refers to a tiny home that is prefabricated in sections or modules, which are then assembled at the final location.
