Month: March 2010

The FernHouse

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Bob Swinburne an Architect from Brattleboro, Vermont wrote to share with me his unique structure called the The FernHouse.

The FernHouse is named for the sea of ferns it floats on for a few months during the Vermont summer.  It started out as a tent platform but inspiration hit and the project developed into something more.

There were no plans or model  – even though I’m an architect.

The structure is only big enough for a full size futon on a hanging frame, the roof is clear corrugated polycarbonate with wide overhangs and the walls are 2 x 4 studs wrapped with insect screen. bracing is minimal.  The entire project took about forty hours and $700 or $800 bucks a few years ago.

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Mini Log Cabin on Indiana Craigslist

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Kevin from Indiana spotted this mini log cabin while searching for trailers and campers on Craigslist. If you are in the area and are looking for that cabin retreat it might be worth looking into. Here is the listing: 12×20 mini log cabin – $3000 (Bloomington, IN) 12×20 mini logcabin … Read more

Dan’s Microhouse in VT

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Dan Kirk recently emailed me about his Microhouse project in Vermont. He has put up a blog called Microhouse VT so that you can follow along with his progress. Dan plans to build his Microhouse from mainly reclaimed materials and I applaud him in that and like that idea more and more myself. Anyway I’m going to turn it over to Dan to tell you a little of his thoughts behind his design.

The final design will be barn-influenced on the outside. This is Vermont, after all. The floor plan will mimic that of the Fencl house from Tumbleweed with a loft for sleeping and a storage loft above the door. The bathroom/showerroom will be as small as possible, a la the bathroom in Jay Shafer’s house. Having enough space to prepare good food is really one of the goals here, and will be a challenge for sure. I think grilling food will be a large part of the tiny house lifestyle, even in the winter. Though, if the right size oven/stove combination comes down the pike, cooking indoors could remain enjoyable even in such a small space. Also, a couch is mandatory.

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Tumbleweed Vacation Rental

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Tumbleweed is looking for a place to host their Fencl as a vacation rental. This might be for the summer only, or could turn into a long term opportunity. You must have a place in the continental US that would be a desirable vacation spot. In addition, electricity must be … Read more

Mongolian Yurts

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For over 3,000 years the nomadic tribes of Central Asia have lived in portable round abodes called ger or yurts. Probably because of the stark locations in which they live, their homes are showcases for their beautiful handiwork emphasized by bright, happy colors which certainly caught my attention. These handmade yurts, imported directly from Mongolia by Groovyyurts in Quebec and Mongolian Yurts in Ohio, are one way to live a simpler life while supporting a developing country.

Yurts are resilient, adaptable, portable and can be used for parties, exhibitions, as temporary or permanent housing, a hunting or ski lodge, a guest room or as a meditation space. Usually two to four people can assemble a yurt in about half a day.

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Tumbleweed Whidbey Plans Sale

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Sale Over! Steve at Tumbleweed just notified me of another plan they are listing at a special sale price. The Whidbey, which has been in there book but never on their website has been redone like the Bodega which was offered for Sale in March. (Sale ends Wednesday March 31) … Read more