# Tiny House Living — Full Content Index > Source: https://tinyhouseliving.com/llms-full.txt > Generated: 2026-09-14T17:25:00.961Z --- ## About URL: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/about Markdown: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/about/llm.txt Type: page **Welcome to Tiny House Living.** I’m Michael Janzen. I am a designer, an artist, and a lifelong advocate for the beauty and utility of living small. If you followed the early days of the tiny house movement, you might already know my work. Between 2008 and 2019, I ran a busy tiny house design blog focused on packing maximum utility into the smallest possible footprints. But my fascination with tiny spaces started long before that. ## The Mendocino Roots I was born in Mendocino County and grew up just south of there. In the early 1990s, right after college, I moved into my grandmother’s tiny cabin in Redwood Valley. I renovated that cabin, built a tiny house-sized pottery studio, and spent my days working as a potter. Those years spent in a small space, surrounded by the architecture of historic coastal towns with the memory of the masted sailing ships and timber history, left a permanent mark on me. When I began designing tiny houses in 2008, I named my designs after those towns—places like Westport, Caspar, Albion, and Philo. For me, designing tiny homes has always been about the puzzle. It is the ultimate challenge of optimizing space and creating multimodal living environments. My goal was never just to draw architectural blueprints, but to create step-by-step assembly instructions that demystified the construction process for regular people building their own dreams. ## The Hiatus and the Return In 2019, I stepped back from publishing tiny house plans to focus on my tech day job, though I never stopped designing, writing, and making art by night. Now, in 2026, I am returning to the tiny house design studio with renewed energy and a fresh set of ideas. ## What’s Next for Tiny House Living As I open this new chapter, my design focus is shifting toward Modern and Mid-Century Modern aesthetics. I am also exploring new ways to solve the spatial challenges of tiny living: * **Wider Footprints:** All my new tiny house designs will be released in pairs, offering both standard 8.5-foot road widths and 10-foot wide versions of the same house design. * **Small Foundations:** I am limiting all future fixed-foundation designs to 500 square feet or less, the scale of my grandmother's cabin which was 450 square feet. * **Extreme Challenges:** I’ll be exploring unconventional concepts just for the fun of it—like how to build on a cliff face, a mountain top, or in an arid desert. * **The Process:** I will be re-launching my YouTube channel to document the "how" and "why" behind the designs, including my experiments with 3D printing physical models. I'm a maker at heart, and I am thrilled to share this next evolution of Tiny House Living with you. Whether you are planning a build, or simply love the ingenuity of small spaces, I'm glad you're here. Warmly, **Michael Janzen** --- ## Podcast: Ethan Waldman interviews Michael Janzen URL: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/podcast-ethan-waldman-interviews-michael-janzen Markdown: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/podcast-ethan-waldman-interviews-michael-janzen/llm.txt Type: post Summary: Ethan Waldman interviews Michael Janzen in a 46-minute conversation covering tiny house design, SketchUp, trailer attachments, and whether the tiny house movement is here to stay. Joining Ethan Waldman on The Tiny House podcast for a conversation covering design philosophy and practical building advice. Since founding TinyHouseDesign.com in 2008 and authoring books like _Tiny House Floor Plans_, I’ve watched the tiny house movement evolve, and Ethan and I kicked off our discussion by exploring whether this lifestyle is a passing fad or a lasting shift. > _Note: On October 17, 2019, I sold tinyhousedesign.com, and I'm no longer associated with that website. I blog about tiny houses here now._ The interview covered my background in the industry. We discussed how long I've been designing, the total number of floor plans I've created over the years, and how many of those have actually been brought to life. I also shared the stories behind some of my favorite projects, including the specific inspiration for my Anchor Bay design. Beyond the design philosophy, the conversation also covered construction details. I shared practical tips on how to securely attach a tiny house to its trailer and offered strategies for estimating a build's gross weight and cost before construction begins. Finally, for those wanting to draft their own floor plans, SketchUp offers a beginner-friendly starting point — its drag-and-drop interface and pre-built component library allow first-time users to produce scaled drawings without prior CAD experience. You can listen to our full conversation and find design and construction resources here: **[www.thetinyhouse.net/michael/](https://www.google.com/search?q=http://www.thetinyhouse.net/michael/)** --- ## 15 Things To Know Before Building A Skoolie URL: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/15-things-to-know-before-building-a-skoolie Markdown: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/15-things-to-know-before-building-a-skoolie/llm.txt Type: post Zac shares 15 things he and Tiffany wished they knew before building their Skoolie School Bus Conversion. Find them at Rolling Vistas. Subscribe to the [Rolling Vistas YouTube Channel](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEv1W3P9FpalPhiukyeA7Gg) for updates. Image and video by Zac and Tiffany. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9tZ0zzHYrs Here's the list... but listen to the whole video because there's a lot of essential details in what Zac shares. 1. You'll feel overwhelmed. 2. You'll be nickel and dimed. 3. You'll watch countless hours of DIY videos on YouTube. 4. The project will take longer than you imagine. 5. Make choices for that work for you, not someone else. Trust yourself. 6. You'll spend too much time at the hardware store. 7. Once you start on it, you'll want to spend time working on the bus all the time. 8. You'll build incredible skills. 9. You'll become more self reliant. 10. You'll meet new people. 11. You'll overcome mental and physical obstacles. 12. Enjoy the thrill of the build. 13. You'll learn a lot about yourself... and your partner. 14. You'll be proud of your work... no matter how good or bad it is. 15. You'll find yourself in a community of kind, intelligent, and fascinating people. --- ## Tiny House Floor Plans - Second Edition URL: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/new-book-tiny-house-floor-plans-second-edition Markdown: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/new-book-tiny-house-floor-plans-second-edition/llm.txt Type: post Summary: New book released today, Tiny House Floor Plans, Second Edition The original version of Tiny House Floor Plans was published in 2009. Today a brand new and completely updated version of the book was released. Tiny House Floor Plans, Second Edition has 356 floor plan designs ranging from 24 12-foot tiny houses to 48 36-foot tiny houses. The book focuses on the larger, more popular tiny house sizes from 24 feet and up but still keeps to the Tiny House Movement's roots and has plenty of 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20-foot tiny house plans as well. You can order the book in print or as an ebook. * [Print copy of Tiny House Floor Plans](https://amzn.to/3bnUyCr) * [eBook version of Tiny House Floor Plans](https://michaeljanzen.dpdcart.com/cart/add?product_id=212082&method_id=231159) Now, let's take a look inside. Below is one sample page from each chapter of the book. ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/8x12-Page-28-Tiny-House-Floor-Plans-773x1000.jpg) 12-foot tiny house floor plan from page 28 or Tiny House Floor Plans, Second Edition. ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/8x14-Page-54-Tiny-House-Floor-Plans-773x1000.jpg) 14-foot tiny house floor plan from page 54 or Tiny House Floor Plans, Second Edition. ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/8x16-Page-75-Tiny-House-Floor-Plans-773x1000.jpg) 16-foot tiny house floor plan from page 75 or Tiny House Floor Plans, Second Edition. ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/8x18-Page-112-Tiny-House-Floor-Plans-773x1000.jpg) 18-foot tiny house floor plan from page 112 or Tiny House Floor Plans, Second Edition. ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/8x20-Page-155-Tiny-House-Floor-Plans-773x1000.jpg) 20-foot tiny house floor plan from page 155 or Tiny House Floor Plans, Second Edition. ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/8x24-Page-210-Tiny-House-Floor-Plans-773x1000.jpg) 24-foot tiny house floor plan from page 210 or Tiny House Floor Plans, Second Edition. ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/8x28-Page-262-Tiny-House-Floor-Plans-773x1000.jpg) 28-foot tiny house floor plan from page 262 or Tiny House Floor Plans, Second Edition. ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/8x32-Page-321-Tiny-House-Floor-Plans-773x1000.jpg) 32-foot tiny house floor plan from page 321 or Tiny House Floor Plans, Second Edition. ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/8x36-Page-372-Tiny-House-Floor-Plans-773x1000.jpg) 36-foot tiny house floor plan from page 372 or Tiny House Floor Plans, Second Edition. If you have an original first edition, you'll be happy to hear that this book is 100% brand new. All the drawing have been drawn new from scratch. Some of the main differences between the two versions are: * **Stairs Everywhere.** Most of the designs use stairs. Back in 2009, stairs in tiny houses were still kind of a new thing. Today most tiny houses are built with stairs, so this new book has them in copious quantities. * **Unique bathroom layouts.** Most tiny house bathrooms are typically a shower on one side, a toilet on the other, and a tiny sink in between. In this new edition, there are so many new and unique bathroom layouts. * **So many kitchen layouts.** Small kitchens, massive kitchens, and everything in between. * **Many more designs.** The first edition had just over 200 floor plans. This new edition has 356 floor plans. * **Rooflines.** In the first version, the plans didn't show where the roof was. You can see what kind of roof it is and where the rooflines lay in the new version. * Wheel Wells. You can spot where the trailer fenders would be and see how each plan is designed to fit the trailer. * Tons of Storage. Each design has ample locations for built-in storage on the lower level and in the lofts. * Family Friendly. Many designs have bed space for 4 or more people, either in dedicated bedrooms and lofts or flexible sleeping locations for guests on sofas. * It's bigger. Tiny houses are getting bigger, so this book had to get bigger too. The first version measured 6"x9". This book is a full 8.5" x 11" and almost twice as thick. It still fits on most bookshelves, though. You can order the book in print or as an ebook. * [Print copy of Tiny House Floor Plans](https://amzn.to/3bnUyCr) * [eBook version of Tiny House Floor Plans](https://michaeljanzen.dpdcart.com/cart/add?product_id=212082&method_id=231159) --- ## Vardo Tiny House Design Study URL: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/vardo-tiny-house-design-study Markdown: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/vardo-tiny-house-design-study/llm.txt Type: post When the tiny house movement was new, an 8x12 tiny house was common. It’s just enough space for one person or a close couple. This size home could also make a great backyard home office or guest room. The curved Vardo-inspired roof sets this tiny house design apart from most tiny houses. A vardo roof is a little harder to build but it has a captivating personality. Inside are all the essentials: kitchen, bathroom, storage, sleeping loft, desk & chair, and seating for guests.  ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Vardo-Tiny-House-8x12-foot-02.png) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Vardo-Tiny-House-8x12-foot-Floor-Plan.png) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Vardo-Tiny-House-8x12-foot-Floor-Plan-Loft.png) --- ## Tiny House with Dormers Design Study URL: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/tiny-house-with-dormers-design-study Markdown: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/tiny-house-with-dormers-design-study/llm.txt Type: post A classic 8x12 tiny house with a 10/12 gable pitched roof, small gable dormers, and a French door entry. Inside is a bathroom with a bay window, 32-inch square shower, toilet, and generous vanity. The kitchen has the basics: a sink, a small refrigerator, a small cooktop, and storage. Also, on the lower level is space for two small chairs. The loft has room for a queen bed and is accessed by a movable ladder. ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Tiny-House-with-Dormers-Design-Study-02.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Tiny-House-with-Dormers-Design-Study-03.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Tiny-House-with-Dormers-Design-Study-Floor-Plan.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Tiny-House-with-Dormers-Design-Study-Loft.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Tiny-House-with-Dormers-Design-Study-Bathroom-with-Bay-Window.jpg) --- ## Wedge Tiny House Design Study URL: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/wedge-tiny-house-design-study Markdown: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/wedge-tiny-house-design-study/llm.txt Type: post The wedge shape of this tiny house would make it more aerodynamic than most tiny homes. A fold-up ramp on the side would provide easy access. The most notable feature after the geometric shape is the giant picture window. Inside you’ll find a tiny wet bathroom with a shower, toilet, and tiny wall-mounted sink. The kitchen has the basics: a sink with a drain rack cabinet above, a small refrigerator, a small cooktop, and storage. Also, on the lower level is space for two small comfy chairs and a desk. The loft has room for a queen bed and is accessed by a fixed vertical ladder inside the entry. ![Wedge Tiny House Design Study Giant Window](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Wedge-Tiny-House-Design-Study-2.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Wedge-Tiny-House-Design-Study-3.jpg) ![Wedge Tiny House Design Study Utility Shed](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Wedge-Tiny-House-Design-Study-4.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Wedge-Tiny-House-Design-Study-Interior-Picture-Window-Lower-Level.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Wedge-Tiny-House-Design-Study-Interior-Picture-Window-Upper-Level.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Wedge-Tiny-House-Design-Study-Floor-Plan-2.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Wedge-Tiny-House-Design-Study-Loft.jpg) --- ## Cross-Gable Tiny House Design Study URL: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/cross-gable-tiny-house-design-study Markdown: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/cross-gable-tiny-house-design-study/llm.txt Type: post A 10/12 cross-gable roof with large windows and a side entry. A fold-up ramp would provide easy access. Inside is a tiny wet bathroom with a shower, toilet, and tiny wall-mounted sink. The kitchen extends over the trailer tongue in a bump-out and has the basics: a sink, a small refrigerator, a small cooktop, and storage. Also, space for a small chair, a loveseat, and a desk is on the lower level. The loft has room for a queen bed and is accessed by wall-mounted ladder rungs. ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Cross-Gable-Tiny-House-Design-Study-Exterior-Side-Entrance.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Cross-Gable-Tiny-House-Design-Study-5.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Cross-Gable-Tiny-House-Design-Study-4.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Cross-Gable-Tiny-House-Design-Study-3.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Cross-Gable-Tiny-House-Design-Study-Dining-and-Kitchen.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Cross-Gable-Tiny-House-Design-Study-Kitchen.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Cross-Gable-Tiny-House-Design-Study-Dining-and-Living.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Cross-Gable-Tiny-House-Design-Study-Floor-Plan-1.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Cross-Gable-Tiny-House-Design-Study-Loft.jpg) --- ## Shed Dormer Tiny House Design Study URL: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/shed-dormer-tiny-house-design-study Markdown: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/shed-dormer-tiny-house-design-study/llm.txt Type: post This tiny house has a 10/12 gable roof with large 3/12 shed dormers. The entry is over the trailer tongue and has fold-up steps. Inside the entry are a small wet bathroom with a shower, toilet, and tiny wall-mounted sink. The kitchen has the basics: a sink, a small refrigerator, a small cooktop, and storage. Also, space for a small chair and table is on the lower level. The loft has space for a queen bed and is accessed by wall-mounted ladder rungs inside the entry. ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Shed-Dormer-Tiny-House-Design-Concept-1.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Shed-Dormer-Tiny-House-Design-Concept-2.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Shed-Dormer-Tiny-House-Design-Concept-3.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Shed-Dormer-Tiny-House-Design-Concept-Front-Door.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Shed-Dormer-Tiny-House-Design-Concept-Living-Kicthen.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Shed-Dormer-Tiny-House-Design-Concept-Loft-View.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Shed-Dormer-Tiny-House-Design-Concept-Floor-Plan.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Shed-Dormer-Tiny-House-Design-Concept-Loft.jpg) --- ## Clerestory Tiny House Design Study URL: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/clerestory-tiny-house-design-study Markdown: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/clerestory-tiny-house-design-study/llm.txt Type: post Summary: Exploring a shed-roof tiny house with clerestory windows, fold-up entry steps, a tongue bump-out bathroom, and a queen loft — all within a trailer footprint. This tiny house design study eplores a 3/12 shed roof with plenty of windows in a clerestory. The front corner entry has fold-up steps. Inside is a small bathroom with a shower, toilet, and generous vanity in a bump-out extension over the trailer tongue. The tiny kitchen has a sink with a cabinet drain rack, a small refrigerator, a small cooktop, a microwave, and storage. There’s also space for a small chair, ottoman, and table/desk. The loft has room for a queen bed accessed by a fixed ladder. The window over the trailer tongue is shown with shutters that would help prevent damage from rocks & debris while on the road. ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Clerestory-Tiny-House-Design-Study-2.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Clerestory-Tiny-House-Design-Study-4.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Clerestory-Tiny-House-Design-Study-3.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Clerestory-Tiny-House-Design-Study-5.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Clerestory-Tiny-House-Design-Study-Kitchen.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Clerestory-Tiny-House-Design-Study-Kitchen-and-Dining.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Clerestory-Tiny-House-Design-Study-Bathroom.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Clerestory-Tiny-House-Design-Study-Floor-Plan.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Clerestory-Tiny-House-Design-Study-Loft.jpg) --- ## Gambrel Roof Tiny House Design Study URL: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/gambrel-roof-tiny-house-design-study Markdown: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/gambrel-roof-tiny-house-design-study/llm.txt Type: post Summary: Studying a gambrel-roofed tiny house design featuring fold-up entry steps, a bay window desk, and a loft with headroom gains from the roof's distinctive profile. Here’s a gambrel-roofed tiny house with plenty of windows. The front corner entry has fold-up steps. Inside is a wet bathroom with a shower, toilet, and small wall-mounted sink. The tiny kitchen has a sink with a cabinet drain rack, a small refrigerator, a small cooktop, and a microwave. The house also has a long and shallow set of cabinets along the right wall below the windows… so there is quite a bit of storage. On the back wall is a desk that fits neatly in a bay window. The loft is small, but thanks to the gambrel roof it has ample headroom. ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Gambrel-Roof-Tiny-House-Design-Study-2.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Gambrel-Roof-Tiny-House-Design-Study-4.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Gambrel-Roof-Tiny-House-Design-Study-3.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Gambrel-Roof-Tiny-House-Design-Study-6-1.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Gambrel-Roof-Tiny-House-Design-Study-7-1.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Gambrel-Roof-Tiny-House-Design-Study-8-1.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Gambrel-Roof-Tiny-House-Design-Study-Desk-Bay-Window.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Gambrel-Roof-Tiny-House-Design-Study-Kitchen.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Gambrel-Roof-Tiny-House-Design-Study-View-from-Loft.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Gambrel-Roof-Tiny-House-Design-Study-Loft.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Gambrel-Roof-Tiny-House-Design-Study-Loft-Level.jpg) --- ## Deep Porch and Hip Roof Tiny House Design Study URL: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/deep-porch-and-hip-roof-tiny-house-design-study Markdown: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/deep-porch-and-hip-roof-tiny-house-design-study/llm.txt Type: post Summary: A 28-foot tiny house combining a hip roof, cross gable, and deep front porch with two living areas, a central kitchen and bath, and a queen loft above. This 28-foot tiny house has a hip roof, a cross gable, and a deep front porch with french doors. At the center of this tiny house are a kitchen and bathroom. Over the kitchen and bathroom is a loft with a queen bed. The front room has two comfy chairs, each with its ottoman. The back room shows a table for four and a sofa tucked into a bump-out extension. A second fold-down porch extends from french doors to the side of the house. ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Tiny-House-Design-Concept-with-Hip-Roof-with-Deep-Porch-Exterior-2.png) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Tiny-House-Design-Concept-with-Hip-Roof-with-Deep-Porch-Exterior-3.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Tiny-House-Design-Concept-with-Hip-Roof-with-Deep-Porch-Exterior-4.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Tiny-House-Design-Concept-with-Hip-Roof-with-Deep-Porch-Deep-Porch.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Tiny-House-Design-Concept-with-Hip-Roof-with-Deep-Porch-Right-Elevation.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Tiny-House-Design-Concept-with-Hip-Roof-with-Deep-Porch-Front-Elevation.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Tiny-House-Design-Concept-with-Hip-Roof-with-Deep-Porch-Left-Elevation-1.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Tiny-House-Design-Concept-with-Hip-Roof-with-Deep-Porch-Interior-Front-Doors.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Tiny-House-Design-Concept-with-Hip-Roof-with-Deep-Porch-Dining-Room.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Tiny-House-Design-Concept-with-Hip-Roof-with-Deep-Porch-Floor-Plan-1.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Tiny-House-Design-Concept-with-Hip-Roof-with-Deep-Porch-Loft-1.jpg) --- ## Dutch Gable with Dormers Tiny House Design Study URL: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/dutch-gable-with-dormers-tiny-house-design-study Markdown: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/dutch-gable-with-dormers-tiny-house-design-study/llm.txt Type: post The structure is defined by a complex 10/12 pitch Dutch gable roof, punctuated by dormers and a transverse center gable. An integrated utility shed at the trailer tongue follows the primary roofline, optimizing the aerodynamic profile for transport. The entry elevation features a recessed wall plane, providing a protective overhang and accommodating bilateral planter boxes. The floor plan initiates with the kitchen and a four-person dining area, separated from the living room by a partial partition. Vertical circulation to the dual lofts is provided by interior wall-mounted ladders within the living zone. The rear program consists of a home office alcove, laundry closet, full bath, and French doors. ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Complex-Roof-Tiny-House-Design-Study-Right-Elevation.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Complex-Roof-Tiny-House-Design-Study-Entry.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Complex-Roof-Tiny-House-Design-Study-4.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Complex-Roof-Tiny-House-Design-Study-3.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Complex-Roof-Tiny-House-Design-Study-2.jpg) ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Complex-Roof-Tiny-House-Design-Study-1-1.jpg) --- ## The Rise of Tiny Houses: A Sustainable Solution to Affordable Housing URL: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/the-rise-of-tiny-houses-a-sustainable-solution-to-affordable-housing Markdown: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/the-rise-of-tiny-houses-a-sustainable-solution-to-affordable-housing/llm.txt Type: post ## The Tiny House Movement: A History of Affordable Housing Solutions The tiny house movement has expanded steadily since the early 2000s in the United States that has gained popularity as an option for lower-cost housing. Tiny houses are typically defined as 400 square feet or less, with some as small as 80 square feet. They offer a minimalist lifestyle with the potential for mobility and a reduced environmental footprint. The movement's history, key milestones, and current challenges trace a clear arc from niche experiment to policy debate. \*(passage removed)\* ## The Origins of the Tiny House Movement The tiny house movement can be traced back to the early 2000s when influential figures like Jay Shafer, Dee Williams, and Michael Janzen began promoting living in smaller, more sustainable spaces. Shafer founded Tumbleweed Tiny House Company, which offered plans and workshops for building tiny houses. Williams wrote a book, The Big Tiny, about her experience building and living in an 84-square-foot house. Janzen started publishing plans and books for tiny houses, which sparked interest and discussion. ## Key Milestones in the Development of the Movement The 2008 financial crisis was a primary catalyst for the growth of the tiny house movement, as many people were looking for affordable housing options. Additionally, in 2018, the International Residential Code Appendix Q was introduced, providing a pathway for legally constructing tiny houses on foundations. ## Reasons Behind the Movement's Popularity The tiny house movement attracts buyers partly because of its lower construction cost of construction, reduced energy costs, and the ability to place tiny houses on cheaper, more accessible land. According to the Tiny House Industry Association, tiny houses have an average cost to build between $20,000 and $50,000, compared to the median home price in the United States of $347,500 in 2022. Tiny houses also have a smaller environmental footprint, requiring less energy to heat and cool. ## Statistics on Tiny Houses in the United States According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there were approximately 1,500 tiny houses in the United States in 2018. However, this number is likely much higher, as many tiny house owners still need to register their homes as permanent residences. According to the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey, the share of newly built homes under 1,400 square feet rose from roughly 16% in 2009 to approximately 21% by 2018, indicating growing occupancy of smaller homes across the country. ## Progress in Changing Government Zoning and Building Codes Zoning and building codes have presented consistent obstacles to the tiny house movement. Several jurisdictions have revised their codes to permit tiny houses. Locations such as Spur, Texas, and Fresno, California, have changed zoning laws for tiny houses. The International Residential Code Appendix Q created a legal pathway for tiny houses on foundations, but local governments have taken additional steps to integrate tiny homes into broader housing strategies. Oregon's 2021 legislation requiring cities over 25,000 residents to allow accessory dwelling units on single-family lots illustrates how states can override local zoning restrictions—a precedent that tiny house advocates have pointed to when pushing for similar state-level mandates specifically covering wheeled and sub-400-square-foot structures. ## Legal Challenges Facing Tiny Houses Zoning laws, building codes, and regulations are significant legal challenges facing the tiny house movement. Many areas have minimum square footage requirements for homes, which makes it difficult for tiny houses to be legally constructed. Additionally, tiny houses on wheels are often classified as recreational vehicles, subject to different regulations than permanent residences. ## Conclusion Zoning reforms and persistent affordability pressures are the two forces most likely to determine how widely tiny houses are adopted in the coming decade. Zoning reforms in several U.S. states have expanded where tiny houses can be legally sited, though minimum square footage requirements and recreational-vehicle classifications persist in many jurisdictions. Zoning reforms in several U.S. states are already expanding where tiny houses can be legally sited, and housing affordability pressures suggest that demand for compact, lower-cost dwellings will continue growing in the years ahead. --- ## Why Study the Smallest Designs? URL: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/why-study-the-smallest-designs Markdown: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/why-study-the-smallest-designs/llm.txt Type: post Summary: Studying micro homes — some as small as 9 square feet — reveals space optimization principles and construction techniques that apply to buildings of any size. One of the things that originally drew me to tiny hose design was the puzzle of it—the challenge of packing maximum utility into the smallest possible footprint. I once challenged myself to design a house just 9 square feet to test the practical lower limits of human habitation. This was back in 2008. I called it "Nine Tiny Feet." I never built it, wish I had. The floor space was 3'x3' and it included a kitchen, desk, seating, toilet, and shower. The sleeping loft, (not included in the square footage due to ceiling height), extended over the porch. My design is pictured on the left and faithfully rendered by Gemini. The plans for this no longer exist, I can't find them anywhere. If there is interest, I will redraw them from memory. Even if you never intend to live in a micro home, there is measurable value in studying how they work. Designs like these demonstrate extreme space optimization and multimodal living—concepts that apply to homes of any size. Perhaps most importantly, I designed the house plans for regular people to build. Unlike standard architectural blueprints, which can be cryptic to the untrained eye, these are presented more like assembly instructions. My goal was to demystifying the construction process—walking through how a complex roof is framed, how a dormer is attached, and how a bay window comes together step by step. --- ## Road Trip Tiny House and Review of SketchUp AI Rendering URL: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/road-trip-tiny-house-and-review-of-sketchup-ai-rendering Markdown: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/road-trip-tiny-house-and-review-of-sketchup-ai-rendering/llm.txt Type: post Summary: Comparing SketchUp's built-in AI rendering against Gemini Pro, using a road trip tiny house concept designed for all 48 states and Alaska. This is a tiny house concept I created [a few years ago](https://tinyhouseliving.com/clearing-the-studio/), long before Generative AI was a thing. I also just renewed my SketchUp Pro license and downloaded the latest version which came with a built-in AI rendering feature. This post covers both the tiny house design and a review of the new SketchUp AI rendering feature. In the images you'll see three versions, the native SketchUp export, the new SketchUp AI rendering output, and for quality comparison a rendering by Gemini Pro (a.k.a. Nano Banana Pro). You can spot the Gemini renderings because they are watermarked with a little four-pointed star in the right bottom corner. I used the simplest prompts to create these , so this is not rigorous testing, just what you get on the first pass. * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Exterior-Porch-Close-Up-SketchUp-1.png) SketchUp * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Exterior-Porch-Close-Up-AI-Render-1.png) SketchUp AI * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Exterior-Porch-Close-Up-Gemini-1-1200x634.png) Gemini I find it useful to invent "stories" in my mind when drawing [design concepts](https://tinyhouseliving.com/free-tiny-house-plan-philo-12/), (like we do in app design with use cases or user personas), because it simulates a real project and makes it more challenging (i.e., more fun). I pictured a family of four traveling through North America, hitting all lower 48 states and ending up in Alaska. * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Exterior-with-Truck-SketchUp-1.png) SketchUp * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Exterior-with-Truck-AI-Render-1.png) SketchUp AI * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Exterior-with-Truck-Gemini-1-1200x634.png) Gemini To make a road trip of that scale possible while towing a tiny house, which is usually not a fun task, I imagined it would be built on a stout trailer with duel axle **duallies**, making it easier for travel using a heavy duty pickup. It's like a big gooseneck travel trailer, but heavier. To save weight, the structure would be made from lightweight steel framing (e.g. [Volstrukt](https://www.volstrukt.com/) framing) but finished like a comfortable [tiny house on wheels](/post/tiny-house-building-codes-navigating-the-irc) so that once it arrived in Alaska it would still be comfy to live in it all year long. (I know, I know, the Alaskans are laughing at me right now - four seasons, tiny house, yeah right.) * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Exterior-Rear-Left-SketchUp.png) SketchUp * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Exterior-Rear-Left-AI-Render.png) SketchUp AI * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Exterior-Rear-Left-Gemini-1200x634.png) Gemini The house has just a few strategically located large windows. The windows all have sturdy shutters that lower into place protecting and locking up the house securely when closed. When open they provide shade and function like awnings. * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Interior-Living-Mode-SketchUp.png) SketchUp * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Interior-Living-Mode-AI-Render.png) SketchUp AI * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Interior-Living-Mode-Gemini-1200x634.png) Gemini The house features a living room that had three modes: dining living, bedroom. The slat wall hides cabinets that open to reveal storage but also a fold-down table. The two long sofas provide storage and can be pushed together to form a queen size bed. I pictured this being the parents bedroom with all night access to the kitchen and bathroom down the hall. The bunk room in the back would be for the kids. * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Interior-Dining-Mode-SketchUp.png) SketchUp * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Interior-Dining-Mode-AI-Render.png) SketchUp AI * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Interior-Dining-Mode-Gemini-1200x634.png) Gemini The kitchen fits the core needs of a family of four living full-time: cooktop, refrigeration, and counter prep space. * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Interior-Kitchen-Sketchup.png) SketchUp * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Interior-Kitchen-AI-Render.png) SketchUp AI * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Interior-Kitchen-Gemini-1200x634.png) Gemini Past the kitchen is a storage lined hall and a bathroom with bunk room in the back. * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Interior-Living-and-Kitchen-Sketchup.png) SketchUp * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Interior-Living-and-Kitchen-AI-Render.png) SketchUp AI * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Interior-Living-and-Kitchen-Gemini-1200x634.png) Gemini There is no loft to keep the house shorter and travel friendly. In many ways this combines the best of a travel trailer with a tiny house but doesn't introduce complexities like slide-outs which would reduce the weather tightness and four season capabilities. * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Interior-Bunk-Room-Sketchup.png) SketchUp * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Interior-Bunk-Room-AI-Render.png) SketchUp AI * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Interior-Bunk-Room-Gemini-1200x634.png) Gemini This is purely a design concept and I have no plans to create house plans for this design. But tell me in the comments what you think and if you'd like to see more designs like this. * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Interior-Bathroom-Sketchup.png) SketchUp * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Interior-Bathroom-AI-Render.png) SketchUp AI * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Interior-Bathroom-Gemini-1200x634.png) Gemini The images were all drawn by me using SketchUp Pro but the renderings were just created today. The design is 100% human, hand drawn in SketchUp, and the rendering is faithfully executed by AI without much distortion. I'm including both the SketchUp native export, the SketchUp AI rendering, and a rendering by Gemini Pro for comparison. My initial opinion of this new AI feature for SketchUp is that the cost is not worth the result. Every time is generates an image it costs credits. It also makes three at a time, which seems odd, although it does give the user a quick way to pick the preferred output. So I guess that could be a time saver. The UI also feels clunnky, kind of old-school, and not in a good way. Trimble (maker of SketchUp) gave me, a paid Pro user, 150 AI credits to play with but at 5 credits per rendering you run out of free credits fast. I pay $20 a month for Gemini Pro, use it all day long for other work, and it could create a ton of renderings like these in a day by converting native SketchUp images without hitting daily limits. From the results shown here, I prefer the Gemini Pro output. So while the built-in AI rendering in SketchUp is a nice addition, the pricing does not compete with the alternatives, including the old-school plugins like Podium which is what I used before generative AI was an option. At this point I htink I'd just use Gemini instead of plugins or the SketchUp AI. \*(paragraph removed)\* AI is great for churning out business documents, rendering images, and doing deep research, but a quick post like this would take longer to draft and edit with AI than to just writing it myself. It would also sound a lot different, more polished in structure, but less direct in voice. Thoughts on the SketchUp AI rendering — whether the clunky feel and credit cost match your experience — are welcome in the comments. * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Exterior-Porch-SketchUp.png) SketchUp * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Exterior-Porch-AI-Render.png) SketchUp AI * ![](https://wwlcbetbatfkq8g8.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/uploads/Road-Trip-Tiny-House-Exterior-Porch-Gemini-1200x634.png) Gemini --- ## How Appendix Q Changes Could Give Tiny Homes a Clear Regulatory Path URL: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/tiny-house-building-codes-navigating-the-irc Markdown: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/tiny-house-building-codes-navigating-the-irc/llm.txt Type: post Summary: Appendix Q's missing language on wheels and chassis has left tiny home builders in regulatory limbo — an April IRC vote could close that gap before the 2030 code cycle. Professionals in the housing sector often find that regulatory language presents the most significant barrier to alternative housing. A recent episode of the [_Less House, More Resilience_](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mALCGGRtZsc) podcast explores this landscape in detail. Host Laura Lynch speaks with architect Macy Miller regarding an upcoming adjustment to the International Residential Code (IRC). The conversation focuses primarily on the IRC's Appendix Q. This appendix currently omits language addressing the wheels and chassis of [tiny homes](https://tinyhouseliving.com/10-foot-wide-tiny-home-by-nelson-tiny-houses/). This omission historically places owner-builders in an uncertain legal position. Macy details the current effort to introduce performance-based and prescriptive proposals to address this specific gap. These proposals aim to provide a clear regulatory framework for local jurisdictions. The upcoming April code vote represents a concrete opening for the industry. Passing this language provides a practical pathway for municipalities seeking to [expand housing options](/post/the-rise-of-tiny-houses-a-sustainable-solution-to-affordable-housing). The National Association of Home Builders has signaled support for the measure. If the vote is delayed, the next opportunity to adopt the language falls in the 2030 code cycle. Signing the Change.org petition is one way to support the measure before the April vote. _Image: Tiny House Design by [Michael Janzen](/about) with SketchUp Pro and [rendered by Gemini Pro 3.1](/post/road-trip-tiny-house-and-review-of-sketchup-ai-rendering)._ --- ## The "Extra-Wide" Revolution: Why 11-Foot Tiny Homes Are Taking Over in 2026 URL: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/the-extra-wide-revolution-why-11-foot-tiny-homes-are-taking-over-in-2026 Markdown: https://tinyhouseliving.com/post/the-extra-wide-revolution-why-11-foot-tiny-homes-are-taking-over-in-2026/llm.txt Type: post Summary: Shifting from portability to permanent placement, 11-foot-wide park model tiny homes are replacing corridor-style floor plans with open-concept layouts approaching 400 square feet. For years, the standard width limit for [the tiny house movement was 8.5 feet](/post/the-rise-of-tiny-houses-a-sustainable-solution-to-affordable-housing). It was the width that permitted towing on any North American highway without a special permit. and tow it down any highway in North America without a special permit. As of 2026, designers and buyers are prioritizing permanent placement over portability. People are realizing that most tiny homes remain parked in one location for extended periods most tiny homes stay parked in one spot for years at a time. The extra-wide tiny home addresses this by replacing highway-width constraints with [floor plans closer to those of a standard apartment](/post/deep-porch-and-hip-roof-tiny-house-design-study). highway-width constraints with floor plans closer to those of a standard apartment. ## The Corridor Problem: Breaking Out of the Hallway If you’ve ever spent an extended amount of time in a traditional 8.5-foot-wide tiny house, the resulting floor plans produce a recognisable corridor effect. Because the space is so narrow, floor plans inevitably become linear. You walk from the living room, through the kitchen galley, past the bathroom, and into the bedroom. By adding just 2.5 feet of width (bringing the total to 11 or even 12 feet), designers are moving away from this linear layout. That extra width allows for: * **True open-concept living areas** where a sofa and a dining table can sit side-by-side rather than end-to-end. * **L-shaped and U-shaped kitchens** with traditional island counters. * **Ground-floor bedrooms** with enough walk-around space that you don't feel like you are sleeping in a closet. ## The Urban Gable Park and the Rise of "Park Models" This trend is reflected in new models hitting the market. At 30+ feet long and 11 feet wide, these homes resemble full-size apartment units built on a quad-axle trailer built on a quad-axle trailer. These extra-wide homes are typically classified as "Park Models." They are still built on heavy-duty quad-axle trailers, but they are intended to be moved rarely. Yes, moving one requires a special wide-load permit on public roads to tow it on public roads, but for buyers looking for a permanent backyard Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) or a long-term placement in a tiny house village, that permit cost is typically offset by the measurable increase in usable floor area. They are often just under 400 square feet to meet the [ADU requirements of many locations](/post/tiny-house-building-codes-navigating-the-irc). ## Zoning Without Walls A recurring design approach in 2026 is "zoning without walls." In an extra-wide tiny home, you don't need to build claustrophobic partition walls to separate your living space from your kitchen. Instead, the extra footprint allows you to use furniture and architecture to define the space. A subtle change in ceiling height, a strategically placed bookshelf, or a kitchen peninsula can clearly define where the cooking ends and the relaxing begins. Combined with this year's trend of oversized, [floor-to-ceiling windows](/post/clerestory-tiny-house-design-study) (often taking up 15-20% of the wall space), these homes measure larger in perceived usable area relative to their listed square footage. ## Is an Extra-Wide Tiny Home Right for You? The choice between a standard Towable Tiny Home on Wheels (THOW) and an Extra-Wide Park Model comes down to placement intent: whether the home will move frequently or remain in one location for an extended period For owners who relocate their home between regions on a seasonal schedule, from the mountains of Colorado to the deserts of Arizona every few months, the standard 8.5-foot width is still your still the more practical choice. For buyers building a permanent ADU, running a long-term rental, or placing a home in a tiny house village, the wider format is the more practical option, creating a high-end Airbnb, or placing a home in one of tiny house villages adding sites in multiple states, the wider format is the more practical option. option. In 2026, buyers selecting permanent sites are increasingly choosing the wider format over standard towable widths. For buyers prioritizing daily comfort over mobility, the extra-wide park model format provides more usable floor area per placement. ---