Master Your Path to Sustainable, Debt-Free Small-Scale Living

Technical Clarity for the Alternative Habitation Journey

Dwell.ovh is a technical aggregator for exploring small habitation conceptsβ€”from emergency survival shelters to premium modular units and traditional Mongolian gers. We decode the engineering, legal, and financial data required to turn sustainable living into a reality.

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Step 1: Identify Your Situation

Step 1: Find Your Habitat

What is your primary goal right now?

Step 2: Analyze the Reference Data

Explore structured technical profiles for each habitation level. We compile relevant public domain facts to help you compare your options.

  • Legal Context: Factual summaries of state and federal codes.
  • Engineering Models: SVG schematics for thermal and power loads.
  • Cost Modeling: Estimated data for site logistics and prep.
THE QUIZL0: SurvivalL2: StealthL4: Prefab

Step 3: Execute Your Mission

The Spectrum

Explore all 5 levels of human habitation.

View All Levels

The Mission Toolkit

8+ Calculators for power, finance, and mold risk.

Open Toolbox

The Code Vault

Simplified IRC Appendix Q Law summaries.

Check Legality

Small-Scale Reference Models

Representative dimensions for micro-habitation units found on public marketplaces.

Capsule Pod165 sq ftHigh (Single)Pre-wired, bathroom included, "plug & play."
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A-Frame Kit100–120 sq ftMediumRequires DIY assembly; usually no bathroom.
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Expandable Container160 sq ft (closed)Very HighFolds out to ~400 sq ft; full kitchen/bath.
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Garden Cabin Kit113 sq ftLow (Shell)Just the wood shell; needs insulation & plumbing.
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Flat-Pack Steel House200 sq ftMediumModular panels; faster than wood kits, slower than pods.
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Livability Face-Off: Which Path fits?

FeatureExpandable Prefab (L4)Tiny House on Wheels (L3)Converted Van (L2)
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L4 Options

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L3 Options

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L2 Options

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Living Space380–800 sq ft160–300 sq ft60–90 sq ft
BathroomFull (Shower/Flush)Full (Wet Bath)Portable/Optional
Ceiling Height8ft+ (Residential)10ft+ (Lofts)~6ft (Cramped)
MobilityLow (Crane Required)Medium (Dually Truck)High (Drive Anywhere)
Legal StatusADU / Guest HouseRV / TrailerPassenger Vehicle

* Living space and mobility specs based on ISO Standard Dimensions and IRC Appendix Q legal thresholds.

Extremes of Micro-Living: Specialized Habitats

38' TOTAL LENGTHREF: Modular Aviation Alloy Shell

Space Capsules & Living Pods

The futuristic extreme of micro-living. These "all-in-one" units typically measure 160–200 sq ft and arrive as pre-assembled, plug-and-play spaceships.

  • Features: Curved structural glass, integrated HVAC, and aviation-grade alloy shells.
  • Livable Score: High (Single dweller). Features standard wet-room bathrooms and kitchenettes.
View Capsule Pods on Amazon

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20' NOMINAL8' WIDTHREF: ISO 6346 Standard Shell

The "Micro-Shed" Cabin

A frequent bestseller at 113 sq ft. While marketed as a garden kit, it is the most affordable entry point for a single-room studio or off-grid retreat.

  • Form Factor: Traditional Nordic Spruce kit requiring manual DIY assembly.
  • Usage: Ideal for backyard offices or "Step 1" survival to stability transitions.
View Micro-Shed Kits on Amazon

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Navigation Legend

Dwell.ovh is structured as a triage funnel. **Step 1** (Quiz) identifies your constraints. **Step 2** (Specs) defines the physics. **Step 3** (Action) provides the sourcing.

Technical Citations
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🚩 Emergency/High UrgencyπŸ“ Engineering Specificationβš–οΈ Legal/Zoning Threshold

Dwell.ovh by a Solo Developer & AI Assistant.

Disclaimer: Dwell.ovh is a technical data aggregator for educational purposes only. The tools and guides provided are not a substitute for professional legal, financial, or architectural advice. Always consult with local building departments and licensed professionals before starting a project.

As an Amazon Associate, Dwell may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases β€” at no extra cost to you.

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