The Tiny house Blog

6 Easy and Functional Upgrades for Your Tiny Home Improvement

By
Jason Francis
Designed and built over 100 custom tiny homes, lived on a sailboat for 9 months, and loves to live life to the fullest with his wife and their 4 kids.
Updated on:
December 6, 2023
DIY home improvement project

Are you living in a tiny home and looking for functional upgrades to make the most of your space? Look no further! With these six easy upgrades, you can transform your small abode into a cozy, efficient, and stylish haven. From adding an awning to your exterior to investing in compact appliances and energy-saving features, we've got you covered. Read on to learn more about how these simple improvements can enhance both the form and function of your tiny home.

1. Adding an Awning to Your Exterior

Adding an awning to your tiny home's exterior can be a game-changer in terms of functionality and aesthetics. Not only does it create an additional outdoor living space, but it also provides shelter from the sun and rain. One of the most popular types of awnings for tiny homes is retractable. This type of awning allows you to extend or retract as needed, so you can enjoy the outdoors without worrying about weather conditions. It's perfect for those who want a quick and easy solution that doesn't take up permanent space, much like your house numbers.

Another option is a fixed awning which requires more installation work but offers long-term protection against harsh weather conditions. You can choose from different materials like canvas, vinyl, or aluminum depending on your preference and budget. In fact, whether you decide to do this on your own, or you choose to hire a reliable Durham awning company, you will want to make sure that you choose the right material and ensure its longevity. Moreover, adding an awning not only serves functional purposes but also enhances your tiny home's appearance by providing depth and dimensionality to its facade. You'll be amazed at how this simple addition could transform your abode into something cozy yet chic!

2. Investing in Space-Saving Storage Options

For tiny homeowners, maximizing space is not even a question, it is a crucial necessity. Now, you can choose to do this by investing in space-saving storage options. The key to success with these types of solutions is finding ways to store your belongings vertically and utilizing every inch of available space. 

For instance, for saving floor space it is best you deal with installing built-in cabinets or shelves on the walls. This not only provides additional storage but also adds a decorative touch to your tiny home interior design. You could also invest in multi-functional furniture pieces such as beds with drawers underneath or ottomans that double as storage containers. 

These items can help reduce clutter while providing extra seating or sleeping arrangements when needed. Don't forget about underutilized areas such as corners and high-up spaces where you could add shelving units or baskets. With a little creativity and planning, there's no shortage of ways to optimize your tiny home's storage capacity!

3. Purchasing Compact Appliances

Compact appliances not only save valuable floor space but also provide the same functionality as their larger counterparts. A great example of a compact appliance is a combination washer and dryer unit. These machines are perfect for small spaces since they take up half the footprint of separate washer and dryer units. Plus, they use less water and energy than traditional washers and dryers, making them eco-friendly. 

On the other hand, appliances like induction cooktops heat up faster than gas or electric stovetops while using less energy. They're also safer since the surface doesn't get hot enough to cause burns when touched accidentally. Also, consider investing in a refrigerator that's specifically designed for small spaces. These refrigerators may have smaller capacities than regular ones but make up for them with features such as adjustable shelves and door bins to maximize storage options inside.

4. Adequate Window Treatments

Sit down and think about installing blinds or shades. These are available in numerous designs, colors, and materials, so you can easily find something that suits your style and budget. Additionally, they're easy to install and operate without taking up too much space. If, by any chance, you are looking for another excellent option for window treatments in tiny homes, then you should consider curtains or drapes. They add a touch of elegance while still being functional. You may choose from various fabrics that suit both natural light filtering and complete blackout needs. 

If you're looking for a more eco-friendly option, consider investing in insulating shades or blinds made from sustainable materials such as bamboo or recycled polyester fabric. These types of window treatments will help keep heat inside during winter months when temperatures drop significantly outside.

5. Water-Saving and Energy-Saving Features

Investing in water-saving features like low-flow showerheads and faucets can help conserve water usage significantly. Not only will this save you money on monthly bills, but it's also an excellent way to support eco-friendly efforts. You should also aim to invest in energy-saving features such as LED lighting or solar panels. These upgrades may seem costly upfront, but they're worth the investment over time as they'll help reduce energy consumption and lower utility costs. 

Another simple yet effective way to save on energy is by adding weather stripping around windows and doors. This will prevent drafts from entering your house during colder months, keeping your home warm without relying too heavily on heating systems. Finally, you can consider investing in a composting toilet instead of traditional flush toilets. Composting toilets are far less wasteful than standard ones since they don't require water or a power supply to function properly.

6. Investing in Adequate Lighting

In a tiny home, it becomes even more critical as the space can feel cramped and dark without proper lighting. Let us look at LED lights, for instance. They are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and come in various colors to suit your mood or style preference. Installing them under cabinets or shelves can also help create an illusion of depth. You could also be considering adding dimmer switches to your existing light fixtures. This allows you to adjust the brightness according to your needs and preferences throughout the day. 

Task lighting, on the other hand, such as small lamps or pendant lights above workspaces like kitchen counters or desks can provide focused illumination where you need it most while also adding style. Maximizing natural light is another great way of investing in adequate lighting. Choose window treatments that allow maximum sunlight into your tiny home while still providing privacy when needed.

Conclusion

Upgrading your tiny home can be a fun and exciting process. With these easy and functional upgrades, you can transform your space into a comfortable and efficient living area that suits all of your needs. From adding an awning to investing in energy-saving features, there are plenty of ways to make the most out of your tiny home improvement project. By incorporating these upgrades into your design plan, you'll not only enhance the functionality of your space but also increase its overall value. So why wait? Start upgrading today and enjoy all the benefits that come with a beautifully designed tiny home.

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