McMansion troubles got you down? Is that ever rising energy bill feeling more like a second mortgage? Try this on for size – tiny houses. This recent New York Times article describes the increasing popularity of the “small house movement” and explains why some people are opting for pads as small as 70 square feet in size.

While downsizing has varied appeal, many people making the change share a commitment to simplifying their lifestyles and reducing the size of their ecological footprint. And then there’s the economic side of doing more with less. Even the most expensive model from the Tumbleweed Tiny House Company won’t set you back much, compared to most contemporary homes. And how many of us would like to boast of an $8 energy bill, even AFTER the recent spikes in energy prices?

Check out this photo slideshow from the New York Times for some very cool shots of the tiny fringe.

Most of us probably aren’t comfortable with the idea of cramming ourselves (and our stuff) into a closet-sized doll house just yet. But the idea of getting back to basics and reducing our clutter (both mental and physical) is certainly something we can all get behind.

 

Filed under: I'On Group, Mixson, Urban Sustainability on September 15th, 2008