Welcome to the tiny house revolution! Tiny house living has been on the rise over the last few years and it shows no signs of slowing down. We've been building for some super creative clients, so we’re taking a look at the tiny house trends that have been emerging in 2023.
The rise of the 'staircase'
When we think of tiny homes, staircses are not the first thing that come to mind. However, with smart design, staircases can be a multifunctional piece of your home, adding valuable storage and a unique feature.
One trend that is gaining popularity is the use of storage stairs. These stairs have lifting steps that provide additional storage underneath, perfect for stowing away items such as shoes or linens. Another solution is to use the space under the stairs for additional storage, such as shelving or drawers.
For those who want to save space, flat profile 'murphy' stairs are a great option. These stairs fold up when not in use, creating additional floor space.
Low profile Furniture
In a tiny house, every inch of space counts. That's why low-profile furniture has become one of our favourite trends in tiny house design. Similar to the murphy-stairs we discussed earlier, low-profile furniture is furniture that can be folded down or stored away when not in use. You may already be familiar with a murphy-bed which folds flat into the wall.
Imagine a dining table that folds up against the wall when you're not using it. Or an office desk that can be tucked away when you need more space to move around. Low profile furniture isn't just practical, it's also stylish. The clean lines and minimalist aesthetic make it a great fit for any tiny home.
If you're worried about sacrificing comfort for space, don't be. Many companies specialize in designing low profile furniture that's just as comfortable as traditional furniture. So if you're looking to save on space but don't want to skimp on furniture, low profile furniture is a great alternative solution.
Elevating Features
Incorporating elevating features into tiny homes is a trend that is rapidly gaining popularity in 2023.
This feature can serve multiple purposes, such as saving space and providing a unique design element. For individuals who require a single-floor tiny home, elevating beds can be especially useful.
Elevating beds, in particular, are a fantastic option for tiny homes with limited space. By elevating the bed, you can use the space beneath for other purposes such as a study, a closet or storage area. Not only does this free up additional floor space, but it also creates an exciting architectural design that can become a focal point in your tiny home.
Check out our 'Elevate' build for an example of how this feature was incorporated into a 'work from home' space.
Garden Suites
In Toronto, garden suites are now legal and they’re becoming increasingly popular as an innovative solution for those who need more living space on their property. These miniature homes can create a close-to-home living space for family members, provide an income opportunity or increase the value of your property. With the option to rent out your garden suite, it’s easy to see why they’ve become a popular trend among tiny home enthusiasts.
Garden suites provide the perfect balance between practicality and sustainability. They’re often constructed using eco-friendly materials, which means they have a low environmental impact. And if you’re looking to create a space for a loved one to stay, it’s hard to think of anything more welcoming than a quaint garden suite that blends seamlessly into the natural surroundings.
Oh, and did we mention we build garden suites?
Feature Walls
When it comes to tiny homes, maximizing every inch of space is key. That's where feature walls come in - they're a great way to add some personality and style to a small space, without sacrificing valuable square footage.
A feature wall is simply a single wall in the home that's been designated as the focal point of the room. This can be done through intricate or interesting tile patterns, accent paint, or custom wallpaper. Feature walls can be found in living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, and even bathrooms - anywhere that needs a little extra pizzazz.
In 2023, we're seeing some exciting trends when it comes to feature walls in tiny homes. More and more people are choosing to create feature walls out of salvaged or repurposed materials. This not only adds character to the home, but it's also an eco-friendly choice. Another trend we're seeing is the use of bold, graphic wallpaper prints. Feature walls are a great way to embrace your inner art enthusiast!
Outdoor Living Spaces
Tiny house living is all about maximizing space and making the most of every inch of your home, including the great outdoors. One way to make the most of your outdoor space is by building an enclosed patio area as part of your tiny house build. This will give you a comfortable and protected outdoor living area that can be enjoyed year-round, no matter the weather. You can install features like built-in seating and a small fireplace or heater to make your patio space feel like an extension of your indoor living space.
Another popular trend in outdoor living for tiny homes is to build fold-flat deck spaces. These decks can be designed to fold out from the side of your home, giving you an instant outdoor living space that can be packed away when not in use. Alternatively, rooftop patios are gaining popularity. They're perfect for those who want the benefits of an outdoor living space without sacrificing valuable indoor living space.
Base Builds
Another awesome trend in the tiny house world is the rise of the 'base build'. This option provides a basic shell for those who want to start their tiny house journey, but perhaps cannot afford a turnkey build or are interested in a DIY project.
With a base build, you get a sturdy and functional structure that can be customized to your specific needs and preferences. It typically includes framing, insulation, and roofing, with windows and doors installed, leaving you with a blank slate to design and build out the interior.
This option is not only cost-effective but also allows for complete creative freedom. You can choose your materials, layout, and features without worrying about pre-existing designs. Then you simply add on to your home as you're able!
Tiny home design has evolved over the years, and we can expect to see even more innovative and creative trends in the future. One thing that remains constant is the importance of making the most of every inch of space. By incorporating multifunctional furniture and clever design elements, even the tiniest of homes can feel spacious and comfortable. Whether it's the rise of the staircase, elevating features, or outdoor living spaces, each trend brings something unique and valuable to the table. So, when it comes to tiny home design, don't be afraid to think outside of the box. At Acorn Tiny Homes, we build the box to fit you!
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