Needs Based Tiny House
Posted on Oct 21, 2008 04:16:31 PM
What would be a good size for a tiny house, or micro house? How much space do you need?
What criteria can we use to come up with needs and wants?
Firstly, let’s consider the hierarchy of needs as depicted by Maslow. These consist of physiology, safety, love, esteem, and purpose. At the physical level let’s look at the first and second needs.
Since we no longer live in perfect climates, clothing and protection from inclement weather are mandatory. A crowded planet means we depend on specialization of production to trade food and services.
The fundamental need is a place to sleep protected from weather and from predators, both small critters and other humans. We also need access to the goods and services we can’t provide for ourselves. The latter factor influences the choice of location of our shelter.
A space big enough for just bedding and shelter is actually simple to supply. Think of how camping equipment can be all you need for night time rest.
But then consider how long could you keep camping in say a one or two person tent. Overnight sleep can work, and has been offered, in as little as a 2×1x1 meter capsule.
In this exercise let’s consider some other criteria that may be more appealing but still address the basic needs.
- Sleeping/relaxing
- Standing
- ‘Climate controlled’
- Securable
- Eating
- Ablution/excretion
When considering what can satisfy these criteria consider what has been achieved in motorhomes, RV’s, campers, boats, and transfer that to a cabin-like tiny house.
Also keep in mind what external services are required and available in the location you might choose to spend time. A log cabin in the woods and a pied-a-terre in a modern city center will have completely different parameters.