From 2020 to 2022, I split my time between two rentals: a one-bedroom apartment in New York City and a tiny home in Santa Monica, California.
However, there came a day when I made a decision to seek a change. With the passing of my stepfather and going through a breakup, my perspective shifted. Prioritizing the alignment of my life with my values became a paramount concern.
It dawned on me that I didn’t require an abundance of possessions, let alone the need for two residences. Consequently, in May 2022, I sold or donated the majority of my belongings. I stored five boxes of winter items in a storage unit and departed from New York with just two suitcases and a camera.
At 40 years old, I have made the 140-square-foot tiny home in Santa Monica my primary residence. It is conveniently located just an eight-minute drive away from the beach, with ample hiking spots nearby.
I pay a total of $1,600 per month for rent, which covers utilities, parking, and WiFi. This amount is $600 less than the median monthly rent for a studio apartment in Santa Monica. Additionally, I allocate $236 each month for my storage unit.
Inside my tiny home, you’ll find a space that is even smaller than the average parking spot, which measures around 150 square feet. However, the design of the house is such that it doesn’t feel cramped or confined.
I discovered the listing for my tiny home on HotPads, an online rental marketplace. This unique dwelling was constructed by architects from Minarc Design Studio and is situated in the backyard of a single-family home.
The main room serves multiple purposes in my tiny home, functioning as my living room, office, walk-in closet, and kitchen. While I’ve added a few small hooks and accessories, the place remains largely as it was when I first moved in.
With its glass door, my tiny home is flooded with ample natural light, creating an open and airy atmosphere. The indoor LED lighting offers six adjustable settings, allowing me to customize the ambiance. In the evenings, I prefer softer lighting, while in the mornings, I usually keep only the bathroom lights on.
As there is no stovetop inside the house, I have a double propane burner placed outside. Drawing upon my Girl Scouts skills, I have become adept at cooking at home, preparing meals at least six days a week.
The bedroom area is like a cozy cove that completely encloses my mattress. It features a hidden drawer underneath the bed, providing extra storage space. To maintain organization, I utilize soft dividers and zippered pouches.
In the bathroom, the only available storage space is below the sink, which has a compact 2.5-foot frame and a small shelf for holding towels. A notable highlight of the house is the sink face, crafted from recycled rubber, providing functionality and easy cleaning.
Source : cnbc.com
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