Do you think today’s technology makes it possible or enhances the tiny house experience? What kind of technology do you have that would be perfect for downsizing your life?” – Laura LaVoie

Read the original story that asks the question, Does Technology Make the Tiny House Movement Possible?

My take… I think technology makes any size lifestyle more comfortable and can change how we connect with other people. As size and consumption go up, so does the cost.

So the more pressing question for technology centers around ROI (return on investment). Many designers like to include high-tech solutions in their design concepts – which is good for creative exploration – but when the rubber hits the road (or bank account) homeowners must often choose between high initial cost and long-term consumption cost.

Tiny homes are going to cost less overall, so may afford the homeowner the opportunity to experiment with more technology. But I don’t think technology makes the tiny house movement possible; technology just makes it easier for folks like Laura to live affordably off the grid while still participating in our technologically connected society.