Man Builds remarkably Functional Micro-House for Under €5,000
Amidst complex world events, one man found solace and a creative outlet in building a remarkably small, yet fully functional, home. Levi Kelly, a micro-house expert and YouTuber, recently completed construction of a tiny dwelling measuring just 1.8 meters in length, demonstrating that pleasant living is possible even in extremely limited spaces.
The project, which took approximately one month to complete, benefited from favorable weather and assistance from Kelly’s wife. He managed to keep costs down to around €4,600, largely due to having pre-existing materials. The bulk of the expenses whent towards wood, insulation, a solar system, and electrical installation.
The most significant cost, had he needed to purchase it, would have been the battery system, potentially reaching €2,600. However, Kelly already owned one. The next largest expense was a reconditioned air conditioning and heating unit, acquired for €550, which he felt added a touch of luxury to the compact space.Kelly incorporated a “chopron” – a terranery – to maximize natural light and designed the structure with enough headroom to stand comfortably. The exterior is finished with cedar wood, painted black and sealed for a modern aesthetic.
Despite its diminutive size, the micro-house boasts a surprising array of features: a compact air conditioner/heater, a folding bed in the attic area (suitable for individuals up to 1.78 meters tall), a storage bank for the battery, a portable toilet and outdoor shower, and a mini-kitchen equipped with a refrigerator, folding tap sink, and a walnut countertop. The sink area cleverly incorporates a chopping board to expand the usable workspace. While not designed for elaborate cooking, simple meals can be prepared using an electric hob or camping stove.
The entire setup is powered by solar panels on the roof, with the option to charge the battery directly from a mains outlet for faster replenishment.
Kelly rigorously tested the micro-house’s resilience, even spending a night inside during a snowstorm. He reported the house performed exceptionally well, providing heat and remaining structurally sound. He also enjoyed a camping experience inside with his three-year-old son, finding the space surprisingly comfortable and enjoyable despite its limitations.
While Kelly doesn’t envision permanently living in the micro-house himself, he believes it demonstrates the potential for minimalist living. He notes its portability - it can be transported with a car – and suggests that someone seeking a simple lifestyle could easily adapt to it.
He advises aspiring micro-house builders to prioritize their needs. He aimed for the smallest, most functional design possible, but recommends adding a few extra centimeters in width or height (perhaps aiming for 3-5 meters) for increased comfort.
Kelly shares his expertise and showcases various unique accommodations – from treehouses and container homes to luxury residences – on his YouTube channel.