Less is More: Sheds For Living : TreeHugger

shed for living perspective

Richard Frankland of Manchester's FKDA has developed a small but complete little housing unit that is much more than a shed.

"The idea of creating such a small living environment came from the growing reports of people being forced from their homes unable to make their current mortgage payments, and turning to living with family, in garden sheds and even in cars."

plan of shed image

He tells Alex at Shedworking:

"We were keen not to compromise on space standards and quality of design to achieve a low-cost micro home. The layout of the shed is extremely efficient and compact, yet provides a spacious feeling with a double height space over the main living area. Directly over the kitchen and shower room is a double bed deck with ample storage and hanging space for clothes. To maximise storage, one of the most important attributes people look for in a home, an inner “sleeve” has been designed that incorporates cut outs for furnishings and fittings, and elsewhere provides plenty of storage space."

The layout is small (302 square feet usable not including loft) but effective, with full bath and kitchen as well as an 11'-8" by 15' living area. Wood stove and modulor man are optional.

shed alternatives image

Specifications:

engineered lightweight timber frame construction (FSC Certified)
Warmcell cellulose fibre insulation
external wall and roof cladding varies (options include timber, corten steel, fibre cement, rubber, aluminium, zinc)
aluminium & timber composite windows by Velfac
internal doorset by Sunfold
rooflight (optional extra) by The Rooflight Company
Energy Label A+ rated kitchen appliances
sanitaryware by Duravit; fittings by Hansgrohe
stainless steel drainage pipes and fittings by Blucher
LED/low energy lighting by Philips
electric underfloor heating by DEVI
photovoltaic panels (optional extra); solar water heating (optional extra)
whole house ventilation by Vent-Axia (optional extra)
wood burning fireplace by M Design
linoleum/cork flooring by Forbo; timber flooring by Junkers; carpet/plant fibre flooring by Crucial Trading
solvent/VOC free paint and varnish by Ecos Organic Paints
bike storage by Cycloc

Starting at 35,000 Pounds from Shedsforliving via Shedworking

Other tiny houses and sheds in TreeHugger
30 Different Ways to Put A Roof Over Your Head In These Tents Times