One of the various aspects of living in a tiny home is its versatility. A well-constructed and well-equipped mobile house can serve as a permanent residence, a vacation home, a rental property, a travel companion, and anything in between. The most compact versions of tiny houses exemplify minimalism and redefine modern housing. The best part is that you don’t have to make a definitive choice. A tiny house can start as a temporary dwelling and eventually transform into a weekend getaway or vice versa. There are no strict rules or limitations that cannot be overcome.
Ultimately, a tiny house is one of the most adaptable and practical homes you can own, especially if it is lightweight and has a small footprint. Today’s mobile homes manage to incorporate all the necessary features and amenities for basic comfort, even within limited space. This is why you shouldn’t be deceived by the apparent simplicity of the Sunset Studio. It is not just a basic hut; it represents the contemporary version of a mobile home designed for a nomadic lifestyle on the road.
Measuring 20 feet (6 meters), the Sunset Studio is truly compact. This means it does not have a chef’s kitchen, a separate loft or main-floor bedroom, or ample storage. However, its width of 12 feet (3.6 meters) compensates for its limited length and allows for a clever layout. In this case, clever means highly functional. Despite its minimalistic design, the Sunset Studio does not lack any of the essential amenities for temporary or comfortable living while traveling.
The interior of the studio showcases pine barn siding throughout, contrasting with the darker flooring. This abundance of natural, untreated woodwork gives the Sunset Studio the rustic charm of a traditional cabin in the woods. It also creates a surprisingly bright and airy atmosphere without any additional embellishments. Despite its size, this mobile studio does not feel cramped or gloomy.
The name of this beautiful dwelling was inspired by its most prominent feature, the spacious built-in porch. Who doesn’t appreciate a lovely porch? Its value increases tenfold when it belongs to a small mobile home. The classic appearance of this covered porch instantly transforms the tiny house into a cozy and inviting home. It is the perfect spot to enjoy the scenic view in the evening (hence the name) or to connect with nature early in the morning while sipping a fresh cup of coffee.
Although the Sunset Studio may not boast the ultra-modern design of homes with large glass doors and seamless indoor/outdoor living spaces, it still manages to create a similar type of flow in a more traditional manner. Having a built-in porch like this would make anyone feel at home, whether it is a temporary rental or a vacation house.
Image: Tiny Homes of Maine
Upon entering, you will be welcomed by what the builder refers to as “the Great Room.” This area is the largest and most adaptable part of the studio. During the day, it can serve as a spacious lounge, while at night it can transform into a cozy bedroom. It also has the potential to be a compact dining area or a practical home office, depending on the preferences of the Sunset Studio’s owners. The Great Room is filled with natural light from large windows on each side, offering delightful views that are ideal for relaxation.
Adjacent to the Great Room is a small kitchenette and a separate bathroom. Despite its size, the kitchenette is well-equipped and offers ample storage space with custom cabinets underneath the countertop and overhead cupboards, including a dedicated compartment for a microwave. There is also a special compartment designed to fit a mini fridge. The solid countertop provides a basic cooking area and can double as a small breakfast bar. Fresh air is brought in through a small window.
The bathroom is furnished with modern appliances, such as a corner shower cabin, a conventional toilet, and a slim vanity. To maintain a comfortable temperature, a mini-split cooling and heating system is installed.
Image: Tiny Homes of Maine
Overall, the Sunset Studio provides 192 square feet (17.8 square meters) of floor space and essential amenities for comfortable living. Its versatile layout and cozy features, including a porch, make it an ideal retreat for two people or a profitable vacation rental in a beautiful natural setting.
Lastly, the simplicity of the Sunset Studio also translates to affordability. It is available at a base price of just under $50,000 and can be delivered anywhere in the United States.