Microshelters

October 1, 2015

Downsizing to tiny homes has a popular following. Following that trend, author and small-home designer Diedricksen (Humble Homes, Simple Shacks, Cozy Cottages, Ramshackle Retreats, Funky Forts) has collected a wide selection of sample structures. The first half of the book is a gallery of 59 sample microstructures including studios, trailers, tree houses, minicabins, and play houses. Some examples include designs; others just a summary with a few nifty features pointed out. The book finishes with six smart tiny-house plans, including construction details. However, the grab-bag nature of the gallery dilutes the usefulness of the book; the criteria for selection are unclear. Likewise, the author's lackadaisical attitude toward local building codes and permits will lead to headaches for potential builders. VERDICT A handy source for tiny-house enthusiasts. Pair this with Ryan Mitchell's Tiny House Living or Jay Shafer's The Tumbleweed DIY Book of Backyard Sheds & Tiny Houses.

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