Tiny Homes: The BIG Alternative, Banishing the Ghost of McMansion
December 22, 2021
Hosted by Nav. C with Co-Host Nav.M
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Episode Description
Over the last two decades, tiny homes have taken up a firm place in the collective consciousness and despite no single definition, they generally refer to small buildings (less than 400 sq ft) where space is maximized to create a long-term residence. The wider tiny house movement has gained immense popularity among various demographic groups, and is underscored by a minimalist ethos that “less is more” utilizing formal design and architectural concepts. However the main assumption is that homeowners can increase affordability while reducing the impact of their environmental footprint. Proponents of the movement are keen to work alongside policy makers and planners to address a number of complimentary housing issues. For example, as a solution to a growing housing shortage and affordability crisis in large cities and conurbations on a global level. Also, as a temporary form of housing for frontline workers and to meet the demands of a rising digital workforce. Indeed the tiny house movement is not only gathering momentum but it’s also confronting these challenges head on. Tiny homes have a small footprint but they offer a great deal to those people with an open mind; In particular, to adventurous homeowners, to investment property owners and to individuals looking for a simpler lifestyle or vacation. In this episode we invite Jennifer McCarthy, President and Founder of Teacup Tiny Homes based in Lethbridge, Alberta to explain various aspects of the operational side of her business. She discusses the plan models which her company designs and builds; How conforming to the latest building and efficiency codes produces a more sustainable Tiny House; How smaller spaces can be maximized to make them look and feel bigger, and her leadership insights regarding the Tiny Home Industry. We trace the origins of the tiny house movement from early thinkers and adopters such as Sarah Susanka and Jay Shafer, who both influenced the broader conversation about creating a better, more thought out space, emphasizing quality over quantity. We introduce fascinating research which confirms the growing trend of conventional houses getting bigger over the past five decades. New US homes today are 1,000 square feet larger than in 1973 and living space per person has nearly doubled. Interestingly, while houses are getting bigger, family size is getting smaller. We also cite a UCLA social science study reprinted in 2017 which highlights the effects of consumerism and material culture, explaining how empty space has been repurposed for storage use. But on a darker note, how consumer societies are drowning in a “culture of clutter.” In contrast, Tiny Homes offer homeowners the opportunity to value, quality of space over quantity of square footage. Clearly Tiny Homes are an alternative to traditional forms of housing by making us re-examine the underlying housing trends which have created undue societal pressure for decades but most importantly, how we view our quality of life
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Nav. C with Co-Host Nav.M
To understand your hosts Nav and Nav is to first recognize our life values which are embodied in the concept of symmetry and projected in our core belief of continuity. We are souls intertwined, bound to infinity or the endless expanse of the universe. By creating lasting memories for our listeners, our shared connections project a positive effect in their lives
Host Nav C. is an exponent of the transformation principle, incorporating key elements of design into a process of moving art. Developing strong relationships via the medium of positive thinking are the foundation of her personal and professional outlook. She encourages you to embrace your vulnerability as a core strength because that which we avoid, offers the richest and most diverse life experience. She has a natural flair for helping others and ardently believes that passion does not subside it simply makes way for something new. She is a confident, energetic individual who uses wit, charm and empathy with artistic license.
Co-host Nav M. is a firm believer in the transformative effect based on the concept of renewal. Life cycles are markers of new beginnings, providing clarity and the opportunity to start over. Catalyzed thoughts ignite raging flames with powerful bursts of positive energy. With a strong commercial background his view on business relationships is that empathy and integrity will always win the trust of individuals because it is our shared memories which create richer experiences.
