Micro homes - great freedom and the smallest ecological footprint

A new kind of quality of life - micro homes as an inspiring and environmentally friendly living concept

Micro house
Source & Copyright by Gray Organschi Architecture - Ecological Living Module UN Headquarters NYC

Author: Eileen Kruger

The micro home movement did not emerge from the minimalism trend as one might expect. This is because it was triggered in the USA by the financial crisis in XNUMX. Due to personal financial hardship, the so-called Tiny Houses with their significantly lower costs became increasingly attractive there. As a result, interest in micro homes spread worldwide because of the many sustainability factors and a more independent lifestyle. Forms of micro houses include cabins, modular micro houses or tiny houses on wheels.

Today, having a lot doesn't mean a better quality of life. Micro homes concepts show how little space can offer a comfortable to luxurious life. Although there is no fixed definition of the term or size of a Tiny House, it usually refers to mini houses with a living space of up to 55 square metres.

What are the advantages of living in a micro home?

Compared to conventional houses and flats, a Tiny House design is space-saving, more environmentally friendly, more flexible and cheaper. Furthermore, a mobile micro house allows the freedom to change location. However, the main argument for switching to a tiny house is to consciously reduce one's personal needs in order to leave a smaller ecological footprint.

The supporters of the movement want to counteract the climate crisis by changing their lifestyle and live more in harmony with nature again - without unnecessary garbage. This is why a lot of recycled materials are used in the construction of micro houses, and emphasis is placed on ensuring that the materials used remain reusable.

Temperature regulation is possible in just a few square metres with little energy expenditure. With large windows, the open-plan rooms can be cleverly ventilated via a cross-breeze. In addition, good insulation and wall insulation provide natural warmth in cold months.

The small rooms are designed in such a way that air conditioning or heating is used as little as possible. Therefore, energy use is reduced and the low energy costs offer significant financial benefits. The smaller the house, the lower the energy consumption in construction and living.

What does a micro home need for a self-sufficient life?

For more independence up to a self-sufficient lifestyle, a few more functions are important in a Tiny House design. Energy can be easily generated by a solar system or wind turbine. In addition, internet and radio use is possible via a satellite dish.

By means of a water collection system or a well - and water filters installed in the pipes - the supply of clean drinking water is given. If a micro homes has off-grid functions, electricity and water will still be available even if the public grid fails. In addition, a composting or separation toilet saves water and is particularly sustainable. Growing your own food is another step towards becoming self-sufficient.

A living concept with the potential to expand awareness

Living in a micro home offers a future-oriented, conscious alternative. However, there are not only ecological advantages, such as saving space and resources. The confrontation with one's own needs and possessions, the usually high mobility capability and the financial yield through savings can be the key to a freer, self-sufficient lifestyle.

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