When it comes to tiny homes, there’s often a debate about how small these dwellings can actually get. Designer Levi Kelly has taken the concept of tiny living to a whole new level with what he bills as the world’s smallest tiny house. Measuring just 19.46 square feet (1.8 square meters), this miniature home, constructed on a single-axle trailer, showcases a creative approach to space management, providing the essentials for minimalist living in an ultra-compact footprint.
The exterior of the tiny house is built from a stick frame and features painted cedar siding with roof shingles. The structure is supported by stabilizing jacks to keep it steady when parked. Despite its small size, the design efficiently maximizes the available space to include essential amenities, offering a comfortable, if snug, living environment.
Inside the tiny house
The interior consists of just one room, optimized for simplicity and practicality. Upon entering, there’s a bench seating area that comfortably accommodates three people. The bench also includes built-in storage, making efficient use of the limited space. Beneath the seating, there is an air-conditioning unit that handles both heating and cooling, ensuring comfort in various weather conditions.
The kitchen is basic but functional. It includes water tanks for both freshwater and greywater, along with a filter and pump system and a water heater. A mini-fridge provides storage for drinks and small food items, and an electric cooktop is tucked away in a drawer when not in use. The kitchen sink has a folding tap and a cutting board insert that doubles as a countertop, further enhancing the usability of this tiny space.
The bedroom is equally compact and features a fold-down bed that is stored in the ceiling when not in use. To access the bed, the occupant must step onto the kitchen counter and hoist themselves up, making it a somewhat unconventional but space-saving arrangement.
Outdoor amenities
While the interior includes the basics, the bathroom is notably located outside. The house’s front wall, near the entrance, features an outdoor shower, and a small camping-style toilet is stored in a rear storage box. Kelly mentions that this toilet can be brought inside for added privacy, but the overall bathroom solution leans heavily on an outdoor setup.
Power and cost
Energy for the world’s smallest tiny house comes from two solar panels mounted on the roof. These panels are connected to a battery that provides power during the night. For those who prefer or need more reliable power, the house can also connect to a standard RV-style hookup.
Perhaps most striking is the cost of this entire project. Kelly built the tiny house on a budget of just $5,000, a surprisingly low figure for a fully functioning home. However, it’s important to note that Kelly already owned the trailer, and much of the cost savings came from his decision to take on the construction work himself.
Source: Levi Kelly
