- 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.
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 concepts—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.
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.
Step 3: Execute Your Mission
Small-Scale Reference Models
Representative dimensions for micro-habitation units found on public marketplaces.
| Model Style | Size (Approx) | Practicality | Key Features | View Selection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capsule Pod | 165 sq ft | High (Single) | Pre-wired, bathroom included, "plug & play." | Check Price As an Amazon Associate, Dwell may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you. |
| A-Frame Kit | 100–120 sq ft | Medium | Requires DIY assembly; usually no bathroom. | Check Price As an Amazon Associate, Dwell may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you. |
| Expandable Container | 160 sq ft (closed) | Very High | Folds out to ~400 sq ft; full kitchen/bath. | Check Price As an Amazon Associate, Dwell may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you. |
| Garden Cabin Kit | 113 sq ft | Low (Shell) | Just the wood shell; needs insulation & plumbing. | Check Price As an Amazon Associate, Dwell may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you. |
| Flat-Pack Steel House | 200 sq ft | Medium | Modular panels; faster than wood kits, slower than pods. | Check Price As an Amazon Associate, Dwell may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you. |
Livability Face-Off: Which Path fits?
| Feature | Expandable Prefab (L4) | Tiny House on Wheels (L3) | Converted Van (L2) |
|---|---|---|---|
| View Selection | L4 Options As an Amazon Associate, Dwell may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you. | L3 Options As an Amazon Associate, Dwell may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you. | L2 Options As an Amazon Associate, Dwell may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you. |
| Living Space | 380–800 sq ft | 160–300 sq ft | 60–90 sq ft |
| Bathroom | Full (Shower/Flush) | Full (Wet Bath) | Portable/Optional |
| Ceiling Height | 8ft+ (Residential) | 10ft+ (Lofts) | ~6ft (Cramped) |
| Mobility | Low (Crane Required) | Medium (Dually Truck) | High (Drive Anywhere) |
| Legal Status | ADU / Guest House | RV / Trailer | Passenger Vehicle |
* Living space and mobility specs based on ISO Standard Dimensions and IRC Appendix Q legal thresholds.
Extremes of Micro-Living: Specialized Habitats
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
As an Amazon Associate, Dwell may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you.
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
As an Amazon Associate, Dwell may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you.