Preview
Document Type
Undergraduate Research
Creation Date
4-8-2015
Department
Psychology
Abstract
A social movement where people shrink the space that they live in. The typical American home is around 2,600 square feet. This number has grown due to the increase in wealth, materials available, and prestige that is associated with large houses. The typical tiny house is between 100-400 square feet but aims for any size under 1,000 sq. ft. Tiny Houses come in all shapes, sizes and forms but they focus on smaller spaces and simplified living. The reasons for joining the Tiny House movement are as varied as the types of houses themselves. Sarah Susanka and Lloyd Kahn have both written on the merits of shrinking living spaces. Jay Shafer and Marianne Cusato have started businesses providing minimalistic homes that focus on the essential parts needed for a functioning house. These pioneers have brought changes to how extravagant living is viewed. Their influences have led to the development of Tiny House Communities where people aim to reduce their carbon footprint and escape the "American Dream". Tiny Houses have also been built to assist destitute Americans and provide shelter to victims of natural disasters.
