What do you think?
Rate this book
Tiny House Living: Ideas for Building & Living Well in Less than 400 Square Feet
Tiny House, Large Life
Tiny House Living distills life down to that which you value most. Free yourself from clutter, mortgages and home maintenance while making more room in everyday life for the important things. Whether you downsize to a 400-square-foot home or simply scale back the amount of stuff you have in your current home, this book shows you how to well with less.
This book explores the philosophies behind the tiny house movement, helps you determine whether it's a good fit for you, and guides you through the transition to a smaller space. For inspiration, you'll meet tiny house pioneers and hear how they built their dwellings (and their lives) in unconventional, creative and purposeful ways.
Everything you need to design a tiny home of your own:
• Worksheets and exercises to help you determine your true needs, define personal goals, and develop a tiny house layout that's just right for you
• Practical strategies for cutting through clutter and paring down your possessions.
• Guidance through the world of building codes and zoning laws.
• Design tricks for making the most of every square foot, including multi-function features and ways to maximize vertical space.
• Tours of 11 tiny homes and the unique story behind each.
Imagine you house help you Live Your Dreams!
176 pages, Paperback
First published June 16, 2014
207 people are currently reading
655 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
January 20, 2024
I spent a decade criss-crossing the globe, living and studying with indigenous elders, during which time all of my worldly possessions fit inside a duffel bag.
I’ve lived comfortably and happily in a 10x10 room, a tipi, a yurt, and a hogan (eight-sided cedar structure). So my 540-square-foot cottage feels palatial to me.
While family size is shrinking, the size of American homes is growing. Today, the average home is roughly 2,400 square feet compared to 1,500 square feet in an average home in the 1950s.
Tiny House Living: Ideas for Building & Living Well in Less than 400 Square Feet by Ryan Mitchell is a fascinating peek inside the tiny house lifestyle — one of financial independence, freedom, and ecological responsibility.
Sixty-eight percent of tiny home owners have no mortgage, compared to 29.3 percent of all homeowners in the United States. Plus, these houses usually tread lightly on the earth.
Many assume that if you choose to live in a tiny home, you are lower income, less educated, and/or unemployed. In fact, that couldn’t be further from the truth.
Tiny-house people tend to make more money than the average American. They are twice as likely to hold a master’s degree as the rest of the country and are 90 percent more likely to have no debt.
As a person who abhors clutter, one of the advantages of living small is that everything I own has a place. People often step inside my home and sigh, “Ah, it feels so good in here.”
Think about this: if you have a home that is of minimal square footage — 100, 500, 1000, depending on perspective — you will have less furniture, less clothes, fewer books, less kitchen gadgets, less stuff because it simply will not fit.
If you’ve been contemplating downsizing or are curious what that might even entail, I’d highly recommend Mitchell’s book. Who knows what doors it might open for you? If nothing else, you’ll see that it is possible to live large in a tiny home.
April 3, 2015
My wife and I raised our kids (technically, we're still raising one, but he only has a year left at home . . . hopefully) in a small home. Not tiny like the houses in this book, but 1200 feet of finished space for six (sometimes seven, when my brother lived with us for several months). To be fair, we have an unfinished basement, as well, but a lot of people probably think we're crazy for having raised four children in such a small house.
We are crazy, but not because of that. Our house has been adequate to our needs. Not ostentatious, and awfully crowded when we have large groups to our place (I think we packed over 30 people in our living room one time). But it works for us.
So I saw this at the local library (when I was picking up this book, which I had on hold) and was drawn in by the cover. Yeah, I'm a sucker. I've been sort of following-ish this whole tiny house "movement" and have been interested particularly in how to best utilize space. I figure if a couple can do it on an under-400-square-foot plan, we could do it in our relative mcmansion of 1200 square feet.
The book is full of ideas on how to best utilize space, but it's a lot more than that. I found myself a little jealous that I hadn't encountered this concept in my younger days, before buying a house. I could totally see us living in a tiny house like the ones pictured in the book, though we would have had to have bought a second one for the kids.
The thing is, the author gets more than a little pedantic about the whole philosophy here. Yes, there are some cool nuggets harking back to the early '90's simple living movement, but this book makes the same mistake that Luhrs' book makes - talking down to the audience. The fact of the matter is that those to whom the book would appeal don't really stand for condescension, being strong-minded, independent, and dare I say, quirky people?
There's not much in the way of nuts and bolts here, either. It's really a meditation on what it means to "live tiny," which has it's place. But all I really wanted was to find the best place to stuff my shoes.
We are crazy, but not because of that. Our house has been adequate to our needs. Not ostentatious, and awfully crowded when we have large groups to our place (I think we packed over 30 people in our living room one time). But it works for us.
So I saw this at the local library (when I was picking up this book, which I had on hold) and was drawn in by the cover. Yeah, I'm a sucker. I've been sort of following-ish this whole tiny house "movement" and have been interested particularly in how to best utilize space. I figure if a couple can do it on an under-400-square-foot plan, we could do it in our relative mcmansion of 1200 square feet.
The book is full of ideas on how to best utilize space, but it's a lot more than that. I found myself a little jealous that I hadn't encountered this concept in my younger days, before buying a house. I could totally see us living in a tiny house like the ones pictured in the book, though we would have had to have bought a second one for the kids.
The thing is, the author gets more than a little pedantic about the whole philosophy here. Yes, there are some cool nuggets harking back to the early '90's simple living movement, but this book makes the same mistake that Luhrs' book makes - talking down to the audience. The fact of the matter is that those to whom the book would appeal don't really stand for condescension, being strong-minded, independent, and dare I say, quirky people?
There's not much in the way of nuts and bolts here, either. It's really a meditation on what it means to "live tiny," which has it's place. But all I really wanted was to find the best place to stuff my shoes.
October 5, 2015
Tiny House Living This is a great book for anyone interested in learning about tiny house living. Not only does it have great inspirational photos, but it has references to help guide you if you want to buy or build your own tiny house. I loved the questions it had me asking myself. The book gets you to analyze your day-to-day tasks as well as the things you use in your house regularly. By the time I finished reading this book, I immediately started minimizing my possessions and writing down everything I need to do in order to buy my own tiny house in a few years. I'll definitely reread this one.
February 13, 2018
I am on this minimalism path and one day will probably be living in a tiny house of some sort. This book was a great resource. It goes through a lot of what the tiny house movement is about. It is all about freedom from stuff and debt, the ability to be mobile both physically and spiritually, discovering what is really important to you and what you need to do to make that a priority. All of that sounds completely appealing to me. No debt, no crap, freedom to do what you love.
There are some really outstanding things in this book. I loved the profiles of people who have gone tiny. They explain why they went tiny and what they learned from it and what tips they have for others. Most built their own tiny houses which seems impossible, but there are builders out there who can build them for you. Ryan Mitchell also talks a lot about land issues and zoning laws and building codes and mortgages. Things you really need to think about if you plan on living tiny full time. This is a great resource and one I would recommend for those thinking about tiny living.
There are some really outstanding things in this book. I loved the profiles of people who have gone tiny. They explain why they went tiny and what they learned from it and what tips they have for others. Most built their own tiny houses which seems impossible, but there are builders out there who can build them for you. Ryan Mitchell also talks a lot about land issues and zoning laws and building codes and mortgages. Things you really need to think about if you plan on living tiny full time. This is a great resource and one I would recommend for those thinking about tiny living.
July 4, 2021
This book motivated me to get on the Tiny House movement. I recently just finished my plans for the tiny house, and I am saving up for one now. This book contains solid information on Tiny Houses. The stories he introduces is engaging and fun as well.
July 5, 2014
Tiny House Living is a treasure trove of information that strikes a healthy balance between imagination/creativity/go-get-‘em and practicality/day-to-day considerations. It is well-written and compiled with great care. I came to this book as a complete newbie and left wanting to join the bandwagon—that’s a lot to accomplish in 173 pages! There are eight chapters with concise, focused titles, such as “Why Choose Voluntary Simplicity?” and “The Path to Living Tiny,” covering just about any topic you could think of regarding a tiny house—from deciding if tiny home living is or isn’t for you, preplanning stages, and preparing to live in a tiny home through construction and living in the home.
This is a book that will appeal to many demographics: those readying for retirement, those wanting to pare down their belongings into a more meaningful and streamlined life, those just starting out in life post-college, those dedicated to living green, those excited by alternative housing and/or repurposed construction, those anticipating a mid-life career or housing change, those interested in cutting expenses, and many others. I love the balance between basic information about zoning and laws, expenses, and reasons for building a tiny house alongside the wonderful interviews and full-color photographs of various people who constructed and/or live in the homes.
Even if living in a small house is not for everyone, the organizational tips alone make this book well-worth a careful read; I began downsizing my clothes closet and donating items (a process I’d been putting off) while reading the author’s suggestions! I love the book’s focus on personal choice and personal change. I found myself sharing excerpts and tips from the text with family and friends.
While there aren’t floor plans in this text—there are plenty of other books that focus solely on floor plans—I cannot think of a single thing this book is missing. The tone is informative and friendly, reminding me of taking a tour with a good friend through the homes. Those interviewed are honest about considerations and drawbacks as well as the great benefits they’ve experienced from living in tiny homes. The three-page appendix of tiny house blogs, builders, books, and websites is fantastically helpful and encouraged me to keep exploring this topic.
Kudos, Ryan Mitchell! As a writer myself, I know how much love, passion for subject matter, and dedication goes into compiling such a beautiful book that invites readers back again and again. I’ll surely keep this one handy on my shelf and recommend it to friends.
This is a book that will appeal to many demographics: those readying for retirement, those wanting to pare down their belongings into a more meaningful and streamlined life, those just starting out in life post-college, those dedicated to living green, those excited by alternative housing and/or repurposed construction, those anticipating a mid-life career or housing change, those interested in cutting expenses, and many others. I love the balance between basic information about zoning and laws, expenses, and reasons for building a tiny house alongside the wonderful interviews and full-color photographs of various people who constructed and/or live in the homes.
Even if living in a small house is not for everyone, the organizational tips alone make this book well-worth a careful read; I began downsizing my clothes closet and donating items (a process I’d been putting off) while reading the author’s suggestions! I love the book’s focus on personal choice and personal change. I found myself sharing excerpts and tips from the text with family and friends.
While there aren’t floor plans in this text—there are plenty of other books that focus solely on floor plans—I cannot think of a single thing this book is missing. The tone is informative and friendly, reminding me of taking a tour with a good friend through the homes. Those interviewed are honest about considerations and drawbacks as well as the great benefits they’ve experienced from living in tiny homes. The three-page appendix of tiny house blogs, builders, books, and websites is fantastically helpful and encouraged me to keep exploring this topic.
Kudos, Ryan Mitchell! As a writer myself, I know how much love, passion for subject matter, and dedication goes into compiling such a beautiful book that invites readers back again and again. I’ll surely keep this one handy on my shelf and recommend it to friends.
October 4, 2015
It is a good reference book for individuals interested in the tiny house movement. It contain excellent photos, case studies and some basic building information. Also, the book delves into various reasons why people voluntarily choose to live tiny.
It gives an overview of some of the benefits of downsizing. For instance there is a chapter that examines consumer consumption and offer tips for determining what is really needed for daily living. It also cover important tiny house decision-making topics: such as the pitfalls of resale and the pitfalls of wasted space. It also provide other ensightful subjects you will need to know during the planning stage, plus tips for navigating building codes, zoning laws and when to seek expert advice.
As previously mentioned each chapter includes a case study. For example, chapter six case study focuses on designing a tiny lifestyle community because a house is only as good as its ability to meet your needs. The case study examines how Lee Pera, Jay Austin and several others built a unique community called Boneyard Studios.
Boneyard Studios, a tiny house community in Washington, DC
There is not enough room for all your wants, possessions or your crafting hobbies in a tiny house therefore it is important to get out and engage in the world.
An important element in eliminating tiny house claustrophobia is networking, outsourcing and connecting within your community.
In small spaces every inch matters and you must get the most usage out of every square foot. A section of the book covers tiny house design values.
Living tiny can turn your inspirations into results. Although the lifestyle is not for everyone it is another option for modern day living. It is an expression of simple living. It requires giving up space and paring down possessions in order to reach your passions and desires.
A tiny house is an extreme leap of faith, although you may not be ready to take that jump, you can take a lot of tiny house ideas and put them into action.
It gives an overview of some of the benefits of downsizing. For instance there is a chapter that examines consumer consumption and offer tips for determining what is really needed for daily living. It also cover important tiny house decision-making topics: such as the pitfalls of resale and the pitfalls of wasted space. It also provide other ensightful subjects you will need to know during the planning stage, plus tips for navigating building codes, zoning laws and when to seek expert advice.
As previously mentioned each chapter includes a case study. For example, chapter six case study focuses on designing a tiny lifestyle community because a house is only as good as its ability to meet your needs. The case study examines how Lee Pera, Jay Austin and several others built a unique community called Boneyard Studios.
Boneyard Studios, a tiny house community in Washington, DC
There is not enough room for all your wants, possessions or your crafting hobbies in a tiny house therefore it is important to get out and engage in the world.
An important element in eliminating tiny house claustrophobia is networking, outsourcing and connecting within your community.
In small spaces every inch matters and you must get the most usage out of every square foot. A section of the book covers tiny house design values.
Living tiny can turn your inspirations into results. Although the lifestyle is not for everyone it is another option for modern day living. It is an expression of simple living. It requires giving up space and paring down possessions in order to reach your passions and desires.
"I want to be intentional about my freedom--- in choosing it, honoring it, and protecting it. One of the best feelings I know is feeling truly free." KRISTIN ARMSTRONG
A tiny house is an extreme leap of faith, although you may not be ready to take that jump, you can take a lot of tiny house ideas and put them into action.
April 6, 2016
I bought this book about a year after discussing the tiny house lifestyle with my friends at a grassroots music and dance festival. I wanted to do more research into how they are built, where people decide to put their homes, how much would it cost to build and maintain, etc. I absolutely love the way this book is laid out! There are eight sections and within each section there is at least one case study on how a couple or person built and how they live in their tiny house. The personal stories break up the informational material and give you actual accounts of people living in their tiny homes. It was great to see how different the tiny houses could be to fit the homeowner's life. I enjoyed this book because it helped answer the question of whether or not I could really proceed with this type of lifestyle. I recommend it to anyone who may be interested in tiny house living or just interested in how people live the tiny house lifestyle. It is definitely an easy and entertaining read.
December 19, 2019
Tiny House Living visits people who have chosen to live in tiny homes to probe the why and how, before shifting to the reader and using similar case studies to offer tips for how interested persons can design tiny house and a life that can live within it. This includes legal considerations, since states and municipalities are surprisingly hostile toward the tiny-house experiment. The book didn’t have the technical information I was looking for (the various ways people approach plumbing and electricity, for instance), though I was able to glean some information from the case studies. Composting toilets seem to be the norm for these operations, and wood-burning stoves apparently popular despite the fact that they’re not sustainable in the least if many people in an area are using them. All told, the book was a fine addition to Tiny House Nation and the other media I’ve been pursuing, but not particularly memorable.
April 23, 2020
I have always been fascinated with the tiny house movement. I’m a strong believer in less is more. My husband and I live in a smaller home, not tiny but definitely smaller compared to today’s standards. We have less possessions to worry about and I love it. The smaller house is easier to maintain and we love traveling so a smaller mortgage makes that possible. This book reinforces the benefits of going tiny. I loved all the profiles of different people who went tiny and seeing pics of the homes they created. They offer some useful tips, too and there are a lot of resources at the end of the book as well. A great coffee table book or for anyone who has even the tiniest interest about tiny house living.
April 6, 2019
Well flushed out tiny house philosophy and impact on life
These tiny houses are very small and not very glamorous. I’ve read out tiny house design books where the tiny houses are actually more beautiful and appealing. This book however does repeat the mantra now having less leads to a better lifestyle where one would think hard on what to keep in the house and life. Not having debt also allows one to pursue alternate career and travel more. It does help in framing one’s perspective on life. I just need to find more books on houses that are architecturally pleasing rather than a Henry Thoreau’s Walden experience.
These tiny houses are very small and not very glamorous. I’ve read out tiny house design books where the tiny houses are actually more beautiful and appealing. This book however does repeat the mantra now having less leads to a better lifestyle where one would think hard on what to keep in the house and life. Not having debt also allows one to pursue alternate career and travel more. It does help in framing one’s perspective on life. I just need to find more books on houses that are architecturally pleasing rather than a Henry Thoreau’s Walden experience.
February 13, 2020
Every time we move for the military, I fantasize and research the possibility of owning a tiny home that I can pack up and move with our family. I loved that this book went into detail about prioritizing belongings-- this was helpful for my current home since we've moved into a smaller space, and we're much happier with less possessions. I've also been able to spend more time with my family and less time cleaning.
I'll definitely revisit this book again if I'm ever able to make my tiny house dreams a reality.
I'll definitely revisit this book again if I'm ever able to make my tiny house dreams a reality.
September 5, 2017
More about the reasons behind living in a tiny house, but not much in the how's. Great pictures, and done really interesting conversions of other things like school buses into tiny homes. Interesting, but not something to read straight through in one sitting.
September 10, 2022
Lots of variety in the homes! So much individuality and great ideas about how to get everything in that you need. Excellent photos. It became clear that a tiny house is just too small for me, but I honor those who love them!
April 20, 2015
Not exactly bad, but a little pedantic and repetitive.
March 7, 2018
I just skimmed this book, but I love the concept. It made me want to simplify my life.
July 8, 2018
Terrific resource!
November 8, 2018
Love it!! Very helpful on how to get started, examples to look at from others, and an insight to many different tiny homes. I love it!
February 3, 2020
Good resource complete with pictures and design philosophy for going tiny
May 25, 2020
Compact creativity at its best.
January 24, 2021
Excellent resource for tiny homes. I read this with an eye to soon downsizing to a cabin-many of the same principles apply to both.
August 17, 2021
Great info.
June 3, 2023
Great book for people making a tiny house plan into a reality. A lot of good information and insight, with real world examples of what goes into making this work.
October 4, 2017
I was hoping that this book would contain more about the actual process of building a tiny house, but a lot of the book just went over the movement in general, why people choose to live tiny, and the different things you need to think about in terms of lifestyle changes when it comes to considering living a tinier life. I was already mostly on board with building a tiny house, so I kind of felt like this book was preaching to the choir, but I can see how this book would be good for someone who is skeptical about tiny house living.
July 10, 2018
Loved this book. It’s more than just a pretty picture book. It delves in to the philosophies rationales and strategies behind the movement. Shows how this lifestyle can not only be a viable, but preferable option for living more simply. It also illustrates how this allows for a certain degree of financial freedom and also lifestyle freedom.
March 13, 2024
This book is a nice mix of visuals and interviews with people who have made the move to living tiny, as well as worksheets to help you think about planning your own build. There are lots of colour photographs so you can really get a feel for what is possible in a small space.
One warning however, the font in the book is also tiny so have a magnifying glass handy!
One warning however, the font in the book is also tiny so have a magnifying glass handy!
August 12, 2019
I found this book disappointing. There's a lot of material in here that could be best described as the philosophy of tiny houses. There's a bunch of links that could easily have been found with five minutes on google. Not really worth your time...
November 18, 2020
I really enjoyed the many colored photos of tiny houses in this book. Most of the book seems to be aimed at people who need to be convinced why tiny houses are for them. For myself, I did not need convincing so the book fell short of its goal.
May 28, 2017
Nice pictures and some good info. I had hoped it would go into more depth but it's basically a coffee-table book.
January 11, 2019
Skimmed basically to get the concept. It gets a bit repetitive.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews