If you live in a crowded share house or dream of living in a studio apartment, you’d probably love the idea of a cosy abode of your own off the grid. Architect Alexander Symes has taken the idea a step further by designing and patenting the idea for transitional, flat-pack houses that can be constructed using only a hammer and a drill. The idea was coined as a way to combat increasing costs of house and land ownership by allowing home buyers to purchase a flat-packed home which can be easily transported and placed on unused development sites or vacant land to create small pop-up communities.
The flat-packed tiny homes are designed to be taken off the grid and to be completely self-sufficient. Solar panels affixed to the exterior provide electricity, individual panels are modular and insulated and running water is sourced from in-built rainwater tanks. Each abode comes with a living room, bed and a plumbed bathroom – providing all the mod cons that are necessary for comfort. Big World Homes is seeking to crowd-fund and crowd-source further development. Check out the funding page to find out more information on the venture or to register your interest in downsizing your living situation.