A Not-so-handyman's Adventure into the Sustainable World of Tiny Houses

By Tom,

So.. I… the “not-so-handyman”, turned nature recovery enthusiast, decided to make myself useful and ‘upskill’ by attending a "Tiny Homes Short Course" organised by Black Mountain College in Vowchurch, Herefordshire. I was looking for inspiration for the ‘eco-cabins’ at the Grange Project, and the course did not disappoint!

The Allure of Tiny Homes

I walked into the course with excitement and slight suspicion, not knowing quite what to expect (we were asked to bring PPE and gloves!). All I knew was that tiny homes were these compact timber cabins on wheels that have been growing in popularity. The notion of living off the grid, minimising our carbon footprint, and embracing a simpler lifestyle was definitely of interest, but my lack of practical experience meant the actual building part felt quite overwhelming. 

Enter Simon Whitfield, the man who successfully simplifies the world of tiny houses. A gardener, chef, and tiny house builder, Simon comes with over 20 years of experience in homesteading and off-grid living. His charisma and friendly welcome quickly dispelled any initial apprehensions.

What I Learned

The course covered everything from the rationale behind choosing a tiny home to the nuts and bolts of construction. We discussed design aspects, budgeting, material choices, and even the types of chassis you could use. I particularly enjoyed the discussion on services – like how to manage water, power, heat, and waste systems in such a small space. Who knew that with effective management, human bodily waste can actually play a critical role in returning nutrients to the soil? It was also inspirational hearing about the value of reclaimed materials, and has definitely made me think again about the necessity to ‘buy new’.

Lifestyle Change

Another major takeaway for me was how tiny homes can be a gateway to a more sustainable lifestyle. They offer an accessible option for those wishing to live off the land, and can have a positive impact on both the environment and individual well-being. This wasn’t just about building an extra room or fitting into a smaller budget; it was about a complete lifestyle shift (although I’m not sure a tiny cabin with 3 children under 5 is in my current life plan!)

Would I Recommend It?

In a word… “Yup”... Whether you're an eco-warrior, someone looking to reduce their environmental footprint or just looking for somewhere affordable to call your own, the Tiny Homes Short Course offers valuable insights into the world of sustainable living. And for those intimidated by the idea of wielding a hammer, like myself, fear not. Si’s engaging teaching style and depth of knowledge make the course accessible for everyone.

So, if you’re keen to explore the fundamental requirements of what's needed to build a tiny house, right from the concept to design and build, mark your calendar for the next available course.

And to Simon and others I met during the day: thank you and here's to a future where we all can make big changes in our own tiny ways!