We have developed fundamental rough ideas about how to use the land. NOTHING is set in stone (pardon the pun). The west side of the property has a 100 year flood zone, that’s where we’ll build up some earth, add a pond, put some grow yards (good soil). If we don’t hit water there we’ll ram pump from the creek and have the water recirculate back down to the creek. This could be a great location for a bahay kubo nipa hut style dwelling. There will be a communal kitchen, living and meeting space. We are wanting to add an inipi or sweat lodge, communal root cellar, ‘safe space cave’ and a few other niceties in our plans.
Site and Building Inspiration
The entire property will be oriented with buildings on a grid with a Southern exposure. Plans include a series of modular square 14×14 or 12 x 12 structures all under 200 square feet. These moveable structures (on skids) may be connected by covered porches, etc. Our inspiration is the Mid Century Modern aesthetic, but adapted for Texas landscape and climate. Shed roof structures and easy to build and service and allow easier access to rain catchment. Covered breezeways between tiny house structures allow shade in the heat and protection from the rain (and sometimes snow!!!)
Yes, there are LOTS of right angles/squares involved. We have a different approach to Permaculture design than the mainstream. Read more here: wholewayhome.com/2017/03/14/architectural-permaculture
Shed-Pavilions Concepts
Visitor cabins may be Square 12×12 or 14×14 square structures all under 200 square feet with lofts. The 12x12s will be taller to allow them to be placed on their sides for rolling down the highway. 14x14s will be under 13.5’. Shed roofs MidMod style allows clerestory windows. The taller side of sheds will face south with large open glass windows and doors to catch heat in winter and high screened windows to release heat in summer. Lots of windows for cross ventilation and air movement. If we can build up to 399 square feet without permits, that might change our whole approach to these structures.