Anatomy of a yurt |
Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. ~Leonardo DaVinci
After looking up some information on sustainable living, and a recent obesession with House Hunters International, I got to thinking about different eco-friendly options that could work for me. I like the functionality and designs of low impact dwellings, and I secretly envision myself living on an island, off the land and off the grid (Just in case you had any doubts about how simple of a life I want to lead). The reality is, I like growing my own food. I want to live in a tropical climate near water. And I want housing that is sustainable with minimal impact on the environment. Hello, solar power!
So, really, a yurt? Yes, a yurt! A friend's daughter lived with her husband and infant child in a yurt in Australia for a while and loved it. According to some yurt companys' websites, you can get a fully loaded yurt for well under $20k, depending on your add-ons. Of course all the flooring and interior design elements like walls and lofts might add some $$$ to that base amount, but structurally, you have a great, portable foundation set up for electric, plumbing and a cistern, all for a super reasonable price. It can be built in a few days, has more square footage than a lot of urban flats, and with maintenance, can last up to 20 years. I'm sold.
Check out these sweet designs:
After 3 years in my house, the 5 year benchmark I set will be here in no time, and I need to decide what the next move should be. With the opportunity for advancement in to a new position at work looming on the horizon, the yurt is an attainable two-year goal. Perhaps not permanently just yet, but a vacation yurt will certainly do...
