I live in a small house in the woods and used old wood to give it a rustic overhaul
A WOMAN has revealed she lives in a small house in the middle of the woods.
She explained that she had always dreamed of living in a cabin, so at the age of 60 she finally took the plunge.
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Donna, a now 62-year-old from Australia, explained that she hired a builder to build her tiny house.
Once it was built, she watched a series of YouTube tutorials to teach herself everything she needed to know so she could outfit the insides.
She used old wood and current tools to give the inside of her cabin a total makeover, transforming the space into a rustic home.
Donna shared photos of her tiny home on social media, leaving many open-mouthed.
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The images were shared on Small space livinga public Facebook group with 1.5 million members, as Donna beamed: “I have dreamed of designing and living in a tiny house (cottage) on wheels for a long time.
“When I was 60 years old, I hired a small home builder to build my own design… 30 feet long x 10 feet wide x 8 feet high… to enclose the stage.
“My budget was very tight, so after she was delivered to me, I picked up the tools myself to outfit the interior of my little cabin all by myself… with my own two hands…
“I had no previous construction experience, so I turned to YouTube to learn how to use power tools and inspirational social media pages, like this one, for courage.
“All I knew was that I wanted my little house to look like a small, rustic cottage.”
What once was shell of a house has since been overhauled – and is sure to leave you stunned.
The small house is now full of style and character and is something you would expect to see in an interior design magazine.
In an effort to keep costs down, Donna continued, “So I found a fencer who sold old hardwood fencing, sourced from fences from the 60s and 70s, and used them throughout the house in different and unique ways.
Eight easy DIY tips and tricks
The ultimate guide for homeowners and renters:
“I’m now 62 and moved into my little house on wheels just over a month ago.
‘I have attached some pictures of what she looked like the day she was delivered to me. I hope you like her…’
The rise of small houses
By Jonathan Rolande
Real estate expert Jonathan Rolande told Fabulous: The reason we’re seeing more creative ways to find a home: super high real estate prices and rents. Younger people continue to live in their parental home later in life to avoid high prices and save for a deposit. As life becomes busier and busier, it makes sense to stay within a larger family group; chores such as gardening and housework can be shared.
Garages are rarely used for their intended purpose, because cars are much more reliable and less susceptible to rust and can therefore enjoy themselves outside. On the other hand, the amount of property space per person has decreased – converting a garage can make a lot of sense.
Things to consider. (the boring things)
Usually easier than building from scratch, but a lot still needs to be done to turn a garage into a habitable space.
You should check whether you need planning (this is more likely if the garage is detached).
Building codes stipulate many things to make homes safe. To consider
Walls, are they cavity walls?
Roof height
Windows
How do you connect plumbing, electricity and drainage?
Insulation – it’s getting cold!
Fire safety
Moisture proofing
Also consider whether the conversion will add or subtract value from the main home. Garages can add value in busy urban areas where parking is limited.
DIY fans are beaming
Facebook users were stunned by Julia’s little makeover and many flocked to the comments to express it.
One person said: “Just fantastic!”
Amazing!! I love everything about this, especially your determination and style!!
Facebook user
Another added: “I love your house, it’s beautiful.”
A third said: “Amazing!! I love everything about this, especially your determination and style!!
“I am currently looking for land to build a small house for my son and me.”
Meanwhile, someone else posted: “So impressive! And you really made it your own. I also love the area!”
Why I could never live in a small house
Tiny houses are becoming increasingly popular in Britain, especially during the cost of living crisis, when first-time buyers are struggling to get on the property ladder or current homeowners are having to pay ridiculous interest rates on mortgages.
But Rebecca Miller, Associate Editor of Fabulous, has opened up about why living in a tiny house would be her idea of a nightmare.
“I’m currently in the process of selling my apartment and buying a house, and as I pack all my stuff I’m worried about where it’s all going to go – there’s so much stuff!
Fortunately, I have the privilege of buying a house with more square meters than my current apartment.
But I wondered: Could I ever live in a small space? And the answer is no.
- Less personal space
Living with another person immediately reduces personal space, but removing multiple rooms would leave me with just the bathroom as my sanctuary. I’m not sure I could handle it!
- Less storage space
I’m like a magpie, I like beautiful collecting thingsand I like my things organized. Since storage space is limited, I find it very difficult to keep everything neat and tidy.
- Can’t play host
One of the joys of being an independent adult is being able to host friends, family, overnight stays and dinners. Where would I gather everyone for Sunday lunch if my table only had two people? Not to mention, how do I cook Sunday lunch?
- No room to grow
Both as an individual, as a couple and also my hobbies can be limited by physical space. When I first moved into my apartment, I was thrilled to have my own balcony, and it was a space where my love of gardening grew. Five years later, my balcony is now full of plants and I have had to put a mini propagator in the living room!
