Experience the Roots of the Tiny House Movement

I first visited Dee Williams' house, who lives in a small town on the West Coast, in April 2015. Having dove headfirst into the world of tiny houses when I participated in her workshop one year previously, I yearned to experience the real tiny house lifestyle, so I set off with my crew on a trip across the United States.

The first place I headed after arriving at the airport was Dee's house. I wanted to meet her and explain what I was trying to do. I told her that I wanted to travel across the West Coast, seeing and hearing from people living in and building tiny houses, and then show that to people in Japan. When I explained that, she kindly introduced me to many of her friends and acquaintances.

Her tiny house was filled with her personality and attitude towards life, and for some reason, the more time I spent there I began to feel happy. Perhaps something was resonating with me deep inside, thinking that I would like to live like that someday. Even now, Dee and her home remain in my mind unparalleled. You can see our journey in the road movie, "simplife".

Room Introduction [Type-A]

The tiny house "Type-A" was created inspired by Dee's house. The Type-A parked at Homemade Village is one size smaller than the original. It's very compact, so it's perfect for lone travelers.

As you enter the house there is a small mudroom space, and on the right is a mini kitchen. The sink utilizes a water tank so cooking is a little difficult, but it's perfect for washing your hands or making tea and coffee. Along the long counter is a space for desk work fitted with a power outlet for a laptop.

At the back, there is a bench that runs the full width of the wall and a single chair. Other than that is only a small folding table. Up the ladder is the loft, which is the bedroom. The ceiling is very close, but if you imagine the feeling of the secret hideout you used to play in as a child, you can go to bed with a feeling of excitement.

(For travelers uncomfortable with tight spaces, this room type may best be avoided.)

At Homemade Village we position the tiny house as a bedroom, and other functions are fulfilled by the facilities below, which are shared by all guests.

Common House (Community Multi-Use Building): With a lounge, dining area, kitchen, and restroom, the Common house is a good place to relax indoors.

Community Garden: The garden brings the seasons and their harvests into our day-to-day-life, with herbs and vegetables, a small pond, a compost shed, and a greenhouse.

Bathroom: There is a bathroom each for men and women containing shower booths, a wide sink, and toilets. The only amenities provided are shampoo, conditioner, and body soap.

Corner Shop (Shop and Light Meals): Offers ingredients for breakfast and dinner and prepared light meals. The greenhouse area at the front of the shop is partially indoors, allowing you to spend time comfortably in close proximity to nature.

Kids Room: A tiny house with shoes allowed indoors. A perfect fit for children to play or adults to kick back with a good book or have a nap.

The design has a steeply sloping gable roof, which was common in the early days of the tiny house movement. Recently, space-efficient low slope single-pitch roofs are becoming more common, but looking at this triangular roof, one is reminded of Dee's message: "Gratitude, Humility, Grace" - the importance of cherishing a grateful heart, a humble attitude, and graceful behavior. It's like a talisman to remind you of that part of yourself.

If even just once, give it a try.