Lulu, a single mom, decided to simplify her life by embracing a minimalist lifestyle and diving into tiny home living. Her goal was to create a life that allowed her to spend more quality time with her daughter.
When she needed to move, a friend suggested a bold idea: why not build something instead of just finding a new place? This suggestion set the stage for Lulu’s unique journey.
To avoid the grind of working full-time just to cover rent while pursuing education, Lulu came up with an innovative solution – building a home from a shipping container. Despite initial concerns about the confined space, the opportunity was too good to pass up, especially since she got the container for free.
Lulu hunted for affordable building materials in unlikely places like dumps, gathering essentials like windows, doors, and flooring. Over a few months, she worked on the project, followed by a month of actual construction. Despite having experience remodeling a boat, building a home from scratch was a new challenge.
Lulu did everything from interior framing and insulation to drywall and plumbing. She used bubble wrap as a barrier against condensation, creating a well-insulated, cozy 160-square-foot living space with a play area, couch, bookshelf, and a basic kitchen.
One notable advantage of container living, according to Lulu, is the quick transition from construction to habitation. The home includes a separate bathroom with a classic clawfoot tub, sink, and toilet, serviced by a propane-powered camping water heater.
As their needs changed, Lulu expanded their living space by building an additional unit on a flatbed trailer, resembling a well-appointed shed with ample windows. This space serves as Lulu’s bed and a loft for her daughter.
Lulu’s resourcefulness shines through in her approach to finding building materials, influenced by her modest upbringing in Argentina. The entire project cost her about $4,000, a sum she considers well spent for a simpler life.
Reflecting on material possessions and societal pressures, Lulu emphasizes the transient nature of belongings. She questions the societal norms of accumulating things and tying our identities to possessions.
Looking forward, Lulu plans to further develop her living space with a second bedroom and a greenhouse, linking the bedroom to the kitchen and living area. Her choices are rooted in valuing time, especially the hours she can spend with her daughter, prioritizing it over a traditional work-life balance. Lulu’s voice reflects both determination and contentment as she shares her journey.
