In the remote countryside of Doña Remedios Trinidad in the Philippines, a millennial couple, Jenina and Adam, realized their vision of a personal getaway by constructing a tiny house for $60,000. Their project reflects a blend of practical design and minimalist charm inspired by shepherd’s huts in the United Kingdom.
Jenina, 36, and Adam, 38, have crafted a tiny house that emanates a unique sense of charm and functionality. They drew inspiration from the compact yet practical design of shepherd’s huts, popular in Adam’s homeland, the UK. Their objective was not only to build a retreat for themselves but to create a space that harmonizes with nature, which they found on Jenina’s family farm. The farm, previously a pineapple plantation, provided a setting where trees did not need to be removed for construction.
The building process, which spanned eight months, presented several challenges, notably the site’s remote location. Transporting building materials was complicated due to its distance from the nearest main road and lack of electricity. The couple enlisted the expertise of a structural engineer and local architect to address these issues, ensuring the house’s stability and sustainability.
Adding to the complexity of their project was the need for custom-ordered materials. This included sourcing distinctive items like cast iron wheels and frames, integral to their unique design vision. Despite these obstacles, the couple successfully constructed a 194-square-foot home featuring a sleeping area, a mini kitchen, and a full bathroom.
Jenina and Adam’s tiny house has become a part of the larger movement toward tiny homes, offering a more affordable housing solution. Since relocating to Cambodia, the couple has listed the property as a rental, capitalizing on the growing interest in minimalist living. Available on Airbnb, the house offers an escape amidst natural wonders, near landmarks like the Biak-Na-Bato National Park and Verdivia Falls.
The house’s architecture features fiber cement walls, which keep the interior cool in the tropical climate, and a durable Polyvinyl Chloride roof, noted for its long lifespan. Although initially intended as a private retreat, it now serves as a vacation rental, celebrating the serene beauty of its surroundings. Family members and guests alike enjoy the tranquility and picturesque views from the house, particularly from its front stairs, which overlook the mountains.
While Jenina and Adam’s future plans may not include permanent residence in their tiny house, they remain open to the idea. Their project not only serves their personal goals but also invites others to experience the natural beauty and innovative design of their sanctuary.
Source: Businessinsider
