I am big fan of the tiny house movement. There is some sort of kindred correlation between tiny homes and tiny trailers. Both can serve as living spaces if one chooses and both can be mobile, as some tiny homes are built on flat bed trailers. The most intriguing feature of tiny homes that can cross over as a learning tool for vintage trailer owners is getting the most out of a tiny space. This translates into useful ways for storage and function.
For those that are restoring vintage trailers from the ground up, taking ideas for form and function from tiny homes can be especially helpful. As you can incorporate ideas for the best form and function from the start. Those with ready to go trailers can also use ideas from tiny homes to find creative ways for storage and learning how to make a small space more functional.
I grew up living on a boat as a child, so I learned at a young age to appreciate tiny living spaces. My Mother was a genius when it came to storage solutions. Our possessions were kept to a minimum and we focused more on food and supply storage. The ocean was our supermarket for fresh caught seafood and the islands we visited throughout the Pacific Northwest became our backyard playground. It was a wonderful experience and really taught me to appreciate living in small spaces. I imagine that experience is directly related to why I enjoy small spaces now. Even though I live in a modestly average size home, I could easily transition to living in a much smaller one. However, for now my little vintage trailer is like a tiny part-time home on wheels.
I recently watched an episode of HGTV Design Star where the 3 remaining contestants are challenged to design the interiors of three tiny houses. I think you will enjoy this!
Also I wanted to share a link to a site I frequently stalk and that is the Tiny House listings. You will find listings for tiny homes, Yurts, Houseboats, Vintage Trailers and even Gypsy Wagons. It’s just fun to dream of one day having a tiny home tucked away on a piece of vacation property or even a full-time home base and using the vintage Shasta Compact when traveling. Ahh, to dream.
Happy designing and dreaming,
Kelle
Thanks for the links, Kelle!
I had no idea that there was an ongoing “Tiny Home” movement! I was amazed at how the “Design Star” contestants were able to create the living quarters and decorate the small, 85 square-foot homes! I enjoy watching HGTV and I am now a fan of this program as well! Also, just wanted to say thanks for sharing your blog about vintage trailers. You bring back such happy memories of days gone by. Take good care.