So, you’re thinking of taking the leap into your dream house—a tiny home. But, if you’re currently sitting in a mid to large-sized abode, you may be wondering how, exactly, to downsize and prepare for your next move.
Perhaps you’re already thinking about resources to tap (think, libraries and community gardens) that’ll help you keep your new digs clean and clear—and free of unnecessary clutter. But don’t get overwhelmed at the prospect of clearing out or even looking for new services.
There’s a bounty of ways to prepare for tiny living, and it’s oh-so-easy to get started. From downsizing belongings and yard sales to adjustment tips, clever services, and minimalist living we’ve got you covered.
Read on to discover the best resources that’ll set up for tiny home living in a snap.
Spend Time in a Tiny Dwelling
Before you begin paring down your belongings and leap into tiny home living, make a plan to spend some quality time in a smaller domain. Not to mention, staying in a small home will answer the biggest question of them all: Can you live in a tiny house full-time?
Whether it’s a few days or an extended stay, assessing what day-to-day life would look and feel like is essential for a harmonious existence. Plus, getting the scope of everyday activities from morning until night, gives a further sense of your time spent, what parts of the home are utilized the most, plus what appliances and features (like an office area or study) are necessary and if you want to live an eco-friendly lifestyle.
Make a List of the Essentials
Write it out—or make a spreadsheet or electronic document—to plot out what is non-negotiable in your living situation.
This list can also help you carve out ideas for furniture and custom-built items—think bookcases, unique storage solutions, closets, cubbies, or even multi-use seating areas (like a kitchen table that’s also a desk).
Declutter and Minimize your Belongings
After you have an idea of what life looks like in a house with a smaller footprint, paring down your stuff is the next step. If you’re a self-described organization connoisseur or a long-time Marie Kondo fan, this preparation might come naturally. If you’re new to this, don’t feel discouraged by the prospect of a life with less.
It’ll be easier to downsize once you have an idea of what tiny home appliances are must-haves for your new lifestyle and know what things you absolutely can’t live without. Between losing the extra noise in your life and focusing on what you’ll get proper use out of, your life (and space) gets richer and richer.
Define What’s Important to You
How will you live and work in your new space? Perhaps your tiny home is situated close to trails for hiking, cycling, and camping areas. Or maybe you’re an avid skier or enjoy fishing and swimming. You might be interested in other entirely new and different activities too. Whatever the case, define what’s ultimately important to you—living by a walkable city center, access to parks and nature, a bustling creative arts community, unique local businesses, et cetera.
Living in an area that offers convenient access to your hobbies, passions, and other lifestyle pursuits makes it easier to transition to a small space (and enjoy all of its offerings).
Be Open-minded
Getting rid of belongings or just moving to a new home (or town) in general can be stressful. So look at it as an opportunity to try something new—activities, hobbies, pursuits, and social engagements. Living with less can mean opening yourself up to even more experiences, places, and people.
Create Space
Making a usable–plus functional stylish space—isn’t just about empty square footage and clean lines. Design and function go hand in hand with the ease of everyday living but adding warmth and meaning to your living space—no matter the size—is key.
Add in personal touches like art, books, cozy pillows and blankets, candles, or diffusers for scent and relaxation to boot. Other functional but aesthetic touches? Footstools, ottomans, and storage benches add personality and offer other uses (think seating), and also opt as additional storage.
Go Smart
Clever and savvy designs should be picture-perfect and helpful. Tap contractors to make built-ins and custom furniture designed for your lifestyle. Think desks, Murphy beds, custom closets, and even bookcases get a unique spin. Even custom shelving can have a multi-purpose function and take storage to new heights.
And go smart with tech—connect the processes in your house with helpful digital tools to make life easier. Lighting, heating and cooling, and entertainment systems can have a smart touch to make maintenance (and entertaining!) easy and fun.
Join a Tiny House Community
A great way to find new and helpful resources? Community. Look for tiny home communities online and in your local area to forge new connections. Bond new friendships over the tiny home lifestyle and find accessible resources (like, shared lawn equipment) without racking up clutter.