The MorHaus approach was to develop a highly functional basic form and provide clients with the ability to configure the structure to meet their needs. We are hoping to not only provide a Garden Structure for extra Office/Studio space, but also the opportunity to install to help with Emergency or Homeless Housing.
The trusses are shipped pre-cut and pre-drilled. Then they are bolted together on-site. The MorHaus method locates a truss every 4 feet with panels that are used for floor, wall and ceiling/roof structure between each truss for enclosed sections and a straight forward deck framing for porch sections. This allows for a high degree of flexibility in the system as any number of enclosed or porch sections – in any configuration – can be used.
Two people can assemble/disassembled the trusses, move them into position and erect the building with the instructions provided in a single day.
Our shop is headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina; as such we obtain most of our materials from the Southeast. This venture was born out of a keen interest in efficiently sized structures and the lack of interesting designs in the marketplace. The structure’s modular designed is flexible enough to meet many needs with a single unifying form. Customers can select from many options including assembly, insulation, interior finishes, electrical and plumbing. The structures are built from pre-fabricated modular components and can be assembled over a weekend by a crew of 2 or 3 with basic carpentry skills.
The design philosophy was conceived by Craig W. Isaac (Architect) and developed with David Kroening (General Contractor). Craig and David worked together on many conventional projects over the past 15 years including several award winning residential renovations. However, they both wanted to develop a fresh, creative and architecturally interesting approach to high quality accessory structures that clients would be proud to own. Moreover, they wanted a design that was flexible enough to integrate enclosed and outdoor spaces in one structure as well as a design that could be expanded to sizes necessary for a weekend retreat or guest house.
The result is MorHaus. Visit their website by clicking Here.
I really like the model with the center deck/breezeway looks very comfortable. I’m living in a little less space about 300 sq ft very comfortably with a little larger covered patio so very doable.
Agreed, the breezeway model is a really nice layout.
I have to say, for once someone has pricing that is approaching a realistic price point as far as tiny homes go.
Very simplistic design. Doesn’t pretend to be anything more than it is, but looks sexy in the process.
But looks sexy in the process… haha! Very true though
The framing is quite interesting, stylish yet functional and the proportions are nice, but I didn’t see any pictures on the website showing windows in the walls. I’d go bonkers without lots of windows, not sure how that would affect the strength of the panels.
The trusses are designed to support the floor, walls and roof-therfore the walls can be opened w/ windows without losing and structural support. On our website we have a photoshopped image showing more windows.
Ah, I see it now, the gallery was on repeat so I gave up too soon. Very nice.
Speaking of the windows…can anyone tell if those square ones open at all?
The basic units come w/ fixed windows, but awning windows are an option.
Finally!!!!! someone on the East Coast doing West Coast design…..that is a good thing. Also want to see more windows, especially for studio or office type use…
scroll down to options and there is an image w/ side windows for full view.
http://www.morhaus.com/models/pricing
I like that model also – Mor1216 – I’m living in 500 ft2 and could reduce this by 100 – 150 with comfort.
I’d change the location of the bathroom to be next to the breezeway just for ease. I love the large shower.
I wonder if this would pass Floridas building codes?
We have not evaluated for Florida wind loads, but expect it possible. We were trying to get into Haiti for aid, but they did not like treated wood structures.
I agree. Walking through the bedroom to use the toilet every time…….. and when you have guests over? My Travel Trailer had a walk through Bathroom & so because hallway was IN it, made a large bathroom space wise, compare to any others I looked at. Just have to dress it up more
Off topic, but Kent, how about updating the gallery? I’m sure there’s a slew of innovative small house designs that have rolled in over the last few years….
Good point Mike, I’ll put that in my top priority list. It may be a while though as I am heading out on a vacation soon and will be doing minimum posts and work during that time.
I like the one with the living room or second bedroom is separate from the other bedroom. I think the second bedroom or living room could also be used as an artist studio (liking to paint, that is what I would use it for). It would be neat a small village of these as a place for those who want to get away from it all; even if it is for a little while.
Nice structure! Looks sturdy and practical. I agree that eye-level window sections would be a welcome addition. (I get a little claustrophobic when I can’t see the outdoor surroundings.) Maybe skylights too. (Would like to see some finished interior shots.)
Agreed. One of the nicest application of modular construction for small house design I have seen.
Clever and love the idea of use in emergency and transitional housing.
Daniel
I like the two room look with the deck in the middle. If I were to do this, I would make one modification to the plans. With the limited space, I would change the bathroom door/wall to a sliding pocket door, like this: http://www.popularmechanics.com/home/improvement/interior/4212294
That way, there would be a bit more usable floor space in the bathroom. Instead of the corner sink as shown in the picture, it could more easily accomodate a pedistal sink along the wall.
~Dan
Not sure if I had replied earlier, but the reason for the swinging door is that woudl make for a non-standard wall panel. The front & back (& bath) walls are made up of 3 panels. The pocket door woudl make it a little tougher to assemble and not as good for noise in a small space.
Thanks,
Craig
My how times have changed, seeing all this makes all the stuff I have a drag, cant pick up go, sadly the American dream my parents once had, seems to be a burden that supports the local municipalities her in NJ. A small piece of property in the woods with a tiny home seems so more appealing….
This is by far the nicest “small house” design I have ever seen. Being Danish, I love the simple lines and contemporary look of your houses. Great approach guys!
I would love share buttons at the end of these awesome posts so I could send them to Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest easier 🙂
FINALLY, a US tiny house design that is simple, clean, timeless and classy. Excellent job – love it!
The Mor 1216 with double glass french doors and screen doors on both side of the breezeway would be sweet. An indoor/outdoor kitchen there would work over half the year where I am.
The modular design gives the buyer a huge amount of possibilities. If it also meets the building codes for a permanent dwelling here in CA, it would finally be a small house company to be in the perfect price range to sell like crazy.
Very nice design in any event, I wish them good fortune.
I forgot to add that the prices range from $6,500 to $15,950 without the insulation and interior which most people could finish themselves. That is right where a tiny house in this size range should start.
Never saw these posts from 2014! Thanks for your comments, We would love to get some on the west coast. We are still plugging away trying to get out and have had inquiries from most US states, but sales only in NC and Virginia – working on a deal for Maui. Let us know if we can help.