Nov 9, 2010
Build Your Own Small Shelter
Build A Country Cottage And Enjoy Nature
One of the most empowering things a person can do is build their own home and live in it. I am not talking about a sprawling 6000 sq foot McMansion in the suburban wastelands of America but a small efficient cottage designed to your needs and built to compliment the environment.
A few hundred square feet will do. The first cabin I built was only 8 x 10 but it had everything I needed. It was private and secluded. I could hike naked all day long then relax by the roaring fire at night watching the stars. I built it over a couple of weekends for around $300.
A shelter is a simple thing. It must keep you warm and dry plus stop the animals from snacking on your feet while you sleep.
Lloyd Kahn produced some of the best books on the subject of small shelters. They are a great inspiration for anyone looking to build their own.
All you need is a small piece of land and some imagination.
Do some research in your area. I would suggest a rural lot with good southern exposure in a wooded area for privacy. A few acre will do, all you need is a building site, area for small garden and some room for some chickens. The more land the more taxes so only pickup what you need. Pay cash for everything but trade for it if you can.
You may have a beautiful home in the city with the spectacular 30 year mortgage that goes along with it. What are you going to do when you lose your job or decided to leave the consumer society behind? A small self contained cottage in the country that’s paid for is a great fall back option and beats living out of your car. If nothing else it’s a great weekend getaway or retirement plan.
