Living Small Movement Gaining Momentum
NWREporter November 2007
Living smaller is not only more affordable and ecological, but it can also contribute to a more balanced and enjoyable life, say its proponents.
One voice for the growing movement to promote smaller housing alternatives and dispel misconceptions about smaller living is the Small House Society, a cooperatively managed organization based in Iowa City, Iowa.
Founded in 2002, the non-commercial Small House Society’s mission is to “support the research, development and use of smaller living spaces that foster sustainable living for individuals, families, and communities worldwide.”
Although the group does not design or build homes, offer house planes or have printed literature, it has a robust Resources Page on its website, including a “What’s News” section. Also featured are highlights from recent conferences, an online bookstore and a discussion forum.
Size is relative, the Small House Society believes. “We mainly promote discussion about the ecological, economic and psychological toll that excessive housing takes on our lives, and what some of us are doing to live better.” It’s not a movement about people claiming to be “tinier than thou,” the group emphasizes, but rather people making their own choices toward simpler and smaller living however they feel best fits their life.”
The Small House Society was founded by Jay Shafer, Shay Salomon, Nigel Valdez and Gregory Paul Johnson, who draw from their collective experience in housing design, home building, urban planning and organizational management. Johnson serves as the coordinator for the cooperatively run organization.
There are no set guidelines for defining a tiny or small house. “A space that might be considered small for a family of four would be large if only a single person were living in it,” Johnson explains, adding, “The goal is for each person to find the right size space that fits their life and comfort level.”
Johnson also notes there are many benefits associated with the small house movement and the trend toward living in smaller spaces. “There are benefits to individuals and society,” he suggests. People who live in smaller living spaces generally own fewer possessions, consume less and have lower utility bills. According to other findings by the Small House Society, people who are able to make smaller living spaces work often end up having more time and money for other areas of life such as marriage, family, education, fitness and career.
Smaller homes require less building materials, therefore costing much less to purchase, maintain and live in,” Johnson states. “All of these benefits result in healthier, more cost effective living and a better environment.”
The Small House Society offers an annual membership for $5. Founders say the dues are used to help the group more effectively join with other organizations to promote small living and lobby against legislation that would hinder the small house movement.
For more information visit www.smallhousesociety.org
Photos courtesy: Gregory Paul Johnson/Resources for Life.com
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