Since my last Semi-Trailer idea I have been doing a lot of researching. I love what Noah Mehl is doing with his trailer, unfortunately I just can't make the budget work. So here is what I have come up with. I have been inspired by the hOMe design (http://tinyhousebuild.com) as I have mentioned many times, so you will definitely see some similarities. Right now its modeled at 8.5' wide x 24' long trailer, and 10'10" high ceilings per the hOMe design.
Some notes on the design, I will work left to right: The bathroom and loft plan is the same design as the hOMe design, however I opt to add a all in one washer dryer in the bathroom. There would also be a storage cabinet over the washer/dryer, but it's something I would add later when I find exactly what my needs are.One thing a user pointed out was one ladder for two lofts. I would go for something where the bathroom door doubles as a ladder.
Obviously the differences begin outside the bathroom. I was also inspired by one of the Tiny House Nation builds where they use a large area of windows and a lengthwise kitchen. I love the idea of the full size appliances for future wife to be able to enjoy. Instead of the hOMe's stairs I opt for a ladder. It would be backed so that it could double as the kitchen table. The chairs are all stackable so that you can save space if needed when not in use.
Under the right side loft are several of my favorite features. I would put my dog kennel under the counter top that I run all the way to the wall. It provides extra counter space for the kitchen, and functions as the kennel I need for my dog when I am at work, and houses my computer area.
The desk portion of the counter top has enough room for my 2 24" monitors, and I would mount the computer in the corner under the loft floor since it's pretty large. My TV would be mounted above the monitors, or in the main loft. Not entirely sure yet. One of my favorite features are the benches. You see them as benches, however this build utilizes some of my current furniture, and these benches are things I already own. They are actually Expedit bookshelves from IKEA. I would make a cushion top for them and this allows me a lot of storage in the seating. Also they move freely so I would be able to slide them together and provide another sleeping area for guests. The master loft would be pretty much the same as the hOMe design as well, minus the stairs leading to it (they are the table, remember?).
The open wall side that this snapshot is taken would be a large percentage of windows. I live in Colorado and we get 300+ days of sun, so I would be pointing this side of the house to the south. I know there's not much storage in the current design, but I see it as expandable as needed. I can always add cabinetry where available, and this will keep my costs down to be able to finish the main part of the build.
Now one thing I am overlooking is a winter heat source. I have a few different ideas for this, and my main question for people that have used them would be, can the ceramic tile heat sources be enough to heat this if it were properly insulated? If not I think there may be room next to the table, or possibly in that corner like in the hOMe design and the door moved over a bit.
A not so ordinary idea I have in regards to heating and cooling comes with paint color. I have been thinking about painting panels a light color on one side for summer to reflect heat, and a dark color on the other for winter to absorb heat. Something that would be easily reversible to try to make the home as efficient as possible.
So, what do you think? I appreciate your questions, comments, and concerns with the design. It all helps with realizing things that need to be altered.
