There have been so many trends in architecture recently, and it can be quite tricky to keep up with them all, especially should you be unaware of how the structures all work, how they are made, what they are made of and what they do respectively.

Of course, it would be so nice to know which part of the roof of your home actually needs repair and maintenance when the grueling time hits! You would know exactly what you should be talking to your contractor about, and what parts need maintenance when things go wrong.

Aside from this, it can always come in handy for future improvements to your home to know exactly what your roof is composed of, and what is subject to what damage, maintenance costs and so on. This is why we will discuss the parts of your roof today and what you need to know about them!

Roof Parts & What They Do

We are sure you will know a thing or two about aspects of your home such as the guttering, beams, rafters, chimney and vent pipes. However, aside from this, it is unlikely that most of us will know much more.

This is typically why we look at roofs as one of the last pieces of home construction, completely unaware that there are a plethora of equally important, small things inside that are vital for its functioning and stability. So, we will talk through each and every part of a roof now, so that you are better aware of what your roof is made up of!

Shingles

Most of us know about shingles, these are the roof cover pieces which can come in rectangular and flat shapes. They will be installed at the eaves once the decking of the roof is laid.

Of course, depending on the design of your home, and its location, there will be different options for what material your shingles will be made of. They could be flagstone, plastic, metal, slate, wood and so on.

Solar shingles are also a trend now, which is a good idea for saving costs on power in the long term. However, to make your roof waterproof, having an underlayment for shingles is important, and it should be applied after to ensure no leaks.

Valley

The valley connected 2 sloped or pitched roofs, thus creating a 90-degree angle. This supported the valley rafter, which also supports an internal roof gutter, where all the small debris and water trickles down and falls down into the external guttering.

The roof valley is the space that collects rainwater, so it falls off the roof. This is one of the most critical steps in roofing, and a good reason why choosing the right type of installation for the valley is a critical step in roofing otherwise you would be likely to suffer some severe leaks.

Eave

Eaves can be considered as being the lowest point in gabled, pitched or mansard roofs. They are otherwise known as roof edges which overhang from the face of the wall, projecting out from the side of the house. It is one of the important parts of the roof that connects the roof and gutters.

However, if you want to be technical, its true function is to keep the wall clear from watermarks trickling down the surface of the house. Therefore, if you were to see a house with a lot of watermarks, you would know that the eaves need maintenance!

Ridge

This is technically known as ridge board, horizontal wood or a resting metal across the peak of the roof creating its triangle shape. Technically, it is the tallest peak on the roof, but when we are considering its function it is connected with the trusses and rafter to make the frame of the roof.

It can also be used in reference to the beam used in being the roof ridge or the roof board.

Rakes

Although the rake is technically considered as being one of many sections of roof, it is not actually found in the roof, per se. It is actually the word used to describe sloped sides at the ends of gabled roofing. It could be flat, or it could have overhangs.

If the rake has overhangings, it could be left open, or closed with a soffit or fascia. It is also a space which is customizable for aesthetic purposes.

Soffit

Soffit are fixtures that are both functional and aesthetic. This is the structure of the roof that you see when you straighten the roof up. Soffits are found between the eaves of the roof and the wall.

This is there to conceal the rafter and ceiling joists, and it functions as a form of protection from the elements, preventing moisture and mold from creeping into your home. This can also help to provide longevity to the materials of the roof.

Sidewall

Sidewall is one of the types of walls often used in roof flashing, which is the material used for waterproofing to prevent any water from getting in, especially at the base and flashing steps.

Sidewalls are much like their front wall counterparts, as they are vertical walls that join to the roofing of the deck surface, connecting the edges of sloping roof decking.

Flashing

Flashing can be made with a variety of different materials, it could be plastic, aluminum, or galvanized steel. The primary function of flashing is to keep water from getting through openings in the roof and other areas wherein rain water could potentially start to pool.

Therefore, you will often find this in vents, roof valleys, skylights, and chimneys too! Through many types of roof flashing, ponding water is often redirected in many parts of a roof. Take a look at this roof part specific flashing:

• Dormer flashing – This is used to provide extra protection to roofs against potential water damage. This will be installed under the sides and on the top of roof steel, or at the end wall or dormers base.
• Chimney flashing – This is installed here as another material for waterproofing installed in the intersection that connects the roof and the chimney together, typically it is used to prevent moisture from penetrating the house via the roof.
• Skylight – Skylight flashing is applied between the frame and the glass. It will be applied on the top as well to contain any moisture that hits the surface of the glass.
• Valley – Install on the valley line of the roof, it will also function as a material for waterproofing on the roof as well.
• Vent Pipe – This is installed externally on the roof and is used as a sealant for the vent pipe to stop water from getting through any surrounding spaces that water could enter through.

Flat Roofs

Flat roofs are considered to be somewhat archaic now. They provide usable space, making it nicknamed as being the ‘living roof’ often used in locations that have an arid climate or commercial building.

However, they are also often used where money is sparse as they are easy to install, cheap, and are not prone to damages easily, so there is less repair costs associated with these.

Hip

Hips are the external angle that functions as a type of intersection where there are sloping sides that are adjacent where a roof might meet. Associated terms include the hip end referring to the triangular sloping surface that typically forms thanks to the hips on the eaves of the roof or its edge.

It is often associated with a hipped roof, which is a roof design well known for slants and inward sloping on all sides of the roof. Hipped roofs are often used in areas which are windy or snowy as ice and slide off the slants easily.

Dormer

Dormers or dormer windows are spaces where skylights are housed, they project from the surface of the roof, or from the plane of a pitched roof. They function to increase the usable space inside a compact loft or room.

So, if you wanted to convert attic space into an additional bedroom, dormers are a good way to bring in some extra ventilation and natural light.

Low Pitch Areas

Low pitch, low spots, or low slope areas. These are common in flat roofs, they are basically just there to lower slopes in the whole roof. That being said, it is in these areas that you usually find that pooling happens. If you do not have a high quality putty, this can then lead to roof damage in the shafts and rafters as time goes on.

Abutments

Abutments are specifically used in bridge construction or roof construction. When building a roof, this is a reference to the spaces in a roof where the slope will intersect with a vertical space such as a wall or a chimney. They are found on the top, sides, and around the vertical areas as a connection to them.

Drip Edge

This is a metal flashing type which is in place to protect roof fixtures that are underlying. It is found along the roof eaves to re-route any water flow away from the roof fascia. In terms of structure, it will hang from the sides of the roof, and has a small sized metal flange that bends away from the fascia.

Some might say that this is a feature which is not essential anymore since gutters work to do the same job. This is a good point, however, it is still functional, and it can be a good way to have extra protection.

Downspouts

This is the pipe which is vertically installed from the roof to the ground. It connects to the gutter and to channels that expel water from the roof down to a specific point. They are typically made from PVC, but they can often also be made from other plastic based materials or even more galvanized steel!

Fascia

These are also known as rooflines, they are the boards which run along the space where the outside walls of the home meet the roof. It will be nailed onto the rafters and works as a support for gutters, or main board where you attach the gutters.

It is also in place to improve the aesthetics of the roof, which is especially important if you have a flat roof or hipped roof, which are not the most attractive designs.

Rafters

Rafters are basically just the wood or metal framing that works together to complete the skeleton of the roof, therefore it is one of the most important parts of it, as without it, there is no roof! It is often a diagonally shaped skeleton, and is a part of the truss.

Meeting at the apex, it’s primarily there to support the deck of the roof from heavy loading. It is where every other part of the roof is attached, therefore it also needs extra bracing for it to be adequately stable.

Gutters

Gutters are important external roof fixtures, they are dusts that function as a system for discharging water. In order for the gutter to function as it should it needs to be installed correctly, at an angle where the water that is removed from the fall would not fall onto the grounds of the house.

Water that falls too close to the foundation of the house could easily weaken it and can damage the basement as well if there is one in the house.

Collar Beams

This is used in domestic roofing and is horizontal and will connect 2 rafters intersecting at the ridge to allow for extra stability to the roofing structure. It is used to frame the structure of the ceiling.

Chimneys

We all know about chimneys, but most of us are unaware that it is a part of roofing systems. It is a vertical structure that is connected via the roof, it is used for ventilation by exhausting combustion gasses that come from the stove, fireplace, or boiler.

Underlayment

Underlayment, or underlayment membranes as a blanket/ cushioning that is laid over the entire decking of the roof to protect it from excess moisture. These are often made from rubber and felt strips, however, more recently it has been made from synthetic materials, or reinforced fiberglass.

They are basically just waterproof materials which work in tandem as a barrier for moisture and water. It is installed onto the deck of the roof, and comes in types that vary and are placed in different specific areas of the roof where water may pool. It is laid in different places, here are some examples:

• Rafters: Here it is meant to provide extra protection as it adds a layer that is water-resistant and prevents moisture from passing.
• Felt: This is a traditional underlayment that is made from felt paper. It waterproofs the roof and is stacked above the decking board and covered with shingles.
• Valley: Roof valleys will channel a lot of water, and this is a reason for extra underlayment, this waterproofs and protects the valleys of the roof and prevents it from leaking!
• Synthetics: As this states, this is an underlayment made from synthetic materials. It is not as high tech as a protective layer, however, it is usually only applied to roof areas which are not coated by ice and water shields.
• Vent pipe: This is also known as plumbing vents and often extend from the waste pipelines of the building. It is installed via the roof. Through these sewer gasses are released outside of the house instead of being trapped within. They also allow for more oxygen flow in the building.

Skylights

Should this be an original part of the roof layout it is considered a part of the ‘common’ roof area. This needs to be clear, and it is not always seen as being part of the roof. It is a functional and aesthetic fitting allowing for ventilation, and egress in emergencies.

Ice & Water Protectors

Ice and water protectors, or ice and water shields, these are not always necessary, however some states do need them in their codes for buildings. They are types of underlayment which are used to prevent heavy, wind driven rains, and ice dams. They are place onto 3 specific areas of a roof, these include:

• Eaves and rakes to protect the interior from frost.
• Valleys where water could pond.
• Flashings and chimneys to allow rains to flow back upwards.

Lookouts

Out-looker or lookout rafters, these are wooden joists from the wall plate to the cantilever. It allows a surface for fascia boards to be placed, and to support the structure of the sheathing for the roof. It can also act as a joist for finished eaves to be fastened.

Solid Decking

Solid decking or roof decking is a composite decking made from solid materials. It is much like wood but is made with stronger materials, so it can carry a heavy roof load.

It will add on some additional protection between the house on the roof. It also can add another surface for underlayment placing, and allows for extra shingles for more waterproofing.

Overall

Most of us just have no need to know about how our roofs are made and all the parts that go into it. However, it can be worthwhile knowing all of these major parts of a roof as it can help to ensure that you know exactly what needs maintenance when something goes wrong… Which can save you money. It doesn’t hurt to have this knowledge!

Modern grey house exterior color schemes are an exciting trend in home design. A grey exterior offers a range of options for homeowners to create unique, stylish and timeless looks for their homes.

Grey color can be used in various ways, from minimalistic to bold and vibrant designs.

There is no one best exterior house color. Each shade carries unique color hues and undertones that will work with or against a particular setting.

What looks like a great gray house down the block may not look as good on your home.

Look for cues in the landscape, the style, and materials used to build the home.

1. Dark and Light Gray

Charcoal gray exterior paint color and a light grey trim have a refined look. It’s a quiet color scheme, blending in the well with the stone retention wall.

You’ll find many gray house color schemes blending in with its porch area.

via Thomas Bateman Hood Architecture

2. Cedar Shakes and Shingles

Gray shingles paired with a Shake roof are a familiar sight in Northeastern coastal towns.

Related: 16 Best Front Door Colors For Brick Houses

A bright red door and white trim on the windows and entry complete the classic coastal look.

via Gelotte Hommas Drivdahl Architecture

3. Medium Gray and White

While gray is a neutral tone, it doesn’t have to be boring. Medium gray siding with green undertones pops against the white trim color, porch pillars, gable pediments, and garage door.

Because of the sunlight to the right, a dark color may look too shaded.

via Siena Custom Builders

4. Neutral Greige Palette

A neutral color palette with a beige color scheme adds richness to the home’s exterior. It creates a uniform look that sets up a bullseye to the front door and the porch chandelier.

Working out a color combination is easier when your color palette shares the same undertone color.

via Coastal Signature Homes

5. Add Pale Blue with Gray

Your accent color doesn’t have to be bold to get noticed.

Blue board and batten window shutters are the right amount of color to this home, with light gray siding and white trim.

Using a deeper gray for the roof shingles brings a calming effect to the cottage home. The driveway shares the same shades of gray as the two different shades of the house.

via Jules Duffy Designs

6. Deep Brown and Gray Stone

Dark brown shingle siding has a classic warm feel. The dark gray roof keeps the eye moving downward to all the incredible textures set up by the stone and siding.

Beige trim outlines the home’s angles, preventing the materials from washing out.

7. Gray Blocks and Mustard Yellow

There’s no law saying you have to stick to one exterior house color. A multi-colored palette of mustard yellow, light gray paint, dark grey, and reddish brown adds interest to this modular home.

Each color choice showcases its own particular material. Note the rectangles on the yellow, small shingles on the dark gray, and vertical siding on the light gray.

8. Black Roof, Gray Siding, and Beige Trim

Creamy trim and black charcoal gray roof and window shutters help define the multiple angles created by the dormer and additions.

The medium gray siding has enough depth to unify the lighter and darker shades. A pop of red on the door creates a focal point.

via Fluidesign Studio

9. Medium Two-Tone Gray

A medium-toned gray works well if your home has a lot of direct sunlight. It may look darker when the home sits in a lot of shade.

Note that this home is using two shades of gray that are very similar to each other. The Japanese maple tree picks up a little color seen in the brown wooden front door.

via Rill Architects

10. Gray Window Shutters, Dark Gray Roof

Gray siding and a darker gray roof with white trim add a calming effect to this country-style home. The photo shows a good example of how gray changes with sunlight.

Related: White House Black Trim: 20 Best Ideas and Designs

Look at the gray window shutters that are all painted the same shade of gray. Their tone changes drastically between the shaded window, the window in direct sunlight, and the window shutters under the porch.

via BuilderFish

11. Slate Gray Window Shutters and Greige Window Trim

Distressed window shutters in gray add a rustic feel to the exterior of this home with its light gray siding. It pairs well with the golden light from the home’s interior design.

Benjamin Moore’s Stonington Gray could be a good choice to recreate this look. We also like the greige window trim.

via Felix Sanchez Photography

12. Dark Gray, Copper, and Cream

White, gray, and medium brown create a sleek look. The roof over the bay window has a copper tone that matches well with the brown door.

Note that the trim is painted all the same color and looks clean. Don’t feel compelled to paint decorative elements a different color.

Their texture adds a lot and can stand on its own without it being necessary to add a separate color to enhance the details.

via First Lamp

13. Barnwood Red and Gray

Barnwood red vertical siding teams up with red cedar shingle siding. The door and window trim is painted to match the shingles, connecting the two levels.

The gray color matches the stone facade on the bottom section of the porch. Light brown wood pillars keep the home looking authentic.

via Timberlake Custom Homes

14. Greige, Gray Roof, and White Trim

This is a gray with a lot of green undertone. You might try a greige tone like Sherwin Williams Repose gray or Polished Limestone by Glidden. In this instance, the trick was to let it stand out from the green surroundings without creating a stark contrast with the stone porch.

The gutters nearly disappeared after they were painted black. A popular choice for black exterior paint is Tricorn Black by Sherwin Williams.

via Jonathan Miller Architects

What Is a Barndominium?

Bardominiums, rapidly gaining popularity amid rising housing prices in the US, are essentially barns that have been converted to living spaces—often with space for an attached workshop or garage.

The open, steel structure of a traditional barn offers a durable and spacious footprint for a home as well as endless opportunities for customization.

What’s the Difference Between a Barndominium and a House?

Cost: Barndominium vs. House

While estimates on this topic vary widely, it is commonly accepted that a barndominium will cost less to build per square foot than a traditional home.

The simpler exterior shell is much cheaper to build and reduces the overall cost of the structure, often by as much as 50% per square foot.

Of course, the cost of the build depends greatly on the materials and finishings you choose for your home, and high-end design can raise the price.

Is It Cheaper to Build a Barndominium or a House?

Common estimates set the cost of building a barndominium at approximately $150-$250 per square foot as opposed to approximately $300-$400 per square foot to construct a traditional home.

What Are the Main Cost Differences Between a Barndominium vs. a House?

• For a traditional home
• The cost of framing out a traditional house—walls, windows, doorways—is a big part of your construction expense, and the primary difference between a home and a barndominium. Siding is also an additional charge specific to a traditional build required to protect the exterior of the structure.
• For a barndominium
• The open floorplan of a barndominium and steel-sided shell require far less framing and siding costs. Additionally, the simpler construction leads many barndominium buyers to do a lot of the labor themselves with pre-engineered kits.

What Is Included in the Barndominium Kit?

Depending on the builder, most come with an engineered foundation, windows, doors, insulation, concrete floors, and the complete shell and roof. Insulation, plumbing, HVAC, insulation, and interior fixtures are all additional costs to consider.

What Is Included in a Traditional Home Build?

When hiring a builder to construct your home, you will need to pay for the land, land prep if needed, foundation, framing, insulation, siding, roof, windows, doors, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and interior features. Build kits are available for homeowners who want to do some of the construction. They come with pre-constructed walls with windows and doors already installed.

Size: Barndominium vs. House

While home sizes can vary widely depending on the number of bedrooms and living areas, the average home size in the US is 2,000 square feet.

Barndominiums come in standard sizes that can be customized with the addition of upper levels.

A 40×30 foot barndominium plan yields 1,200 square feet on the ground floor, while a 40×60 foot plan will give you 2,400.

Design: Barndominium vs. House

While both a barndominium and a traditional home offer extensive options for custom décor and fittings, the floor plans vary greatly.

A traditional home will have considerably more walls on the interior and greater room separation. Barndominiums are traditionally open-space floorplans with most of the living area integrated into one large space.

Walls are reserved for rooms requiring privacy, like bedrooms and bathrooms. Their simpler design reduces the amount of time it takes to build the home and the open spaces are considered more energy efficient.

They typically boast higher ceilings than their traditional construction counterparts with the average barndo offering a 14’ ceiling vs. 8-9’ in a classic home. Often made of metal, the barndominium exterior is also lower-maintenance than a traditional vinyl or wood-sided home.

Lifestyle: Barndominium vs. House

Pros

The barndominium option has many pros for a homeowner. They offer a lower cost housing option with a faster construction timeline, allowing you to enjoy your home sooner and have more money for additional investments.

Most barndominiums include a generous attached garage or workshop space that can be completely customized to fit your needs.

The open living space offers excellent entertaining opportunities and greater energy efficiency – lowering your monthly energy costs. The strength and durability of the structure means less maintenance, allowing you more free time to enjoy your home and your life.

Cons

Ready to build your own barndominium? While there are numerous positives to these popular home alternatives, there are some downsides to consider as well. It can be very difficult to find financing for your new home.

Despite the increasing demand, at this time barns are not considered to be homes, disqualifying the barndominium from many conventional mortgage options.

Additionally, with fewer on the market, there is little comparable data for appraisers should you choose to resell and selling can be challenging with heavy customization if it doesn’t appeal to the buyer.

Where Are Barndominiums Most Popular in the U.S.?

With more and more people moving to increasingly rural locations, barndominiums are popping up all over the US. In many cases, it’s easier to build one in a smaller, more rural town where the zoning laws are easier to work with.

They are also extremely popular in states with ample land available to build on or in areas with high housing costs.

The most popular states currently for barndominium builds are Texas, Michigan, Oklahoma, Missouri, and increasingly Florida as a solution to their hot housing market.

Barndominium House Plans

10 Best Barndominiums Homes

1. Traditional Look Barndominium

This plank-sided barndominium floor plan may have the bones of a barn, but it has all the curb appeal of a traditional home.

A double garage with an RV-height door completes the package.

via R2G Barndominium

2. A Porch Built For Entertaining

This spacious barn conversion has fantastic outdoor living space with the addition of a large, well-appointed porch.

Multiple ceiling fans keep you and your guests cool during those hot summer nights spent watching the sun set.

via Byron Hensley

3. True To Its Barn Roots

This open concept barndominium takes a traditional barn footprint and adds all the amenities of a home.

Gorgeous wood floors and interior barn doors add farmhouse appeal to the classic décor. An extended front porch with stunning wood double doors adds a homey credibility.

via R2G Barndominium

4. Metal Construction With Cupolas

Metal siding and a metal roof provide long-lasting durability to this custom barndominium.

A pair of cupolas on the roof and garage door-sized windows offer natural light and ventilation to the spacious interior.

via Big Sky Barndominium

5. Wood Sided Custom Barndominium

This open floor plan barn house packs a punch with large windows and a spacious front porch that doubles as a second living and dining area.

The bold striped curtains offer not only visual interest, but also as much privacy as you’d want on your porch, while a full-sized pool and manicured landscaping make for an inviting outdoor space.

via Our Barndominium Life

6. Barndominium House

This beautiful barn home stuns in a soft green with natural wood accents. Despite its barndominium house plan, it could easily be mistaken for a traditional home.

Modern farmhouse lighting, flower boxes, and a wooden gable pediment add to its abundant curb appeal.

7. Rustic Wraparound Porch Stunner

The traditional barn footprint and high ceilings of this wood-sided beauty offer a massive living area from a barndominium floor plan. 

The wraparound porch, complete with rocking chairs and barbecues makes for an inviting outdoor space in a cabin-like setting.

via Peter Trenkenschuh

8. Multi-Level Dream Barndominium

You will be living your best barndominium life in this massive metal construction barn house whose façade hides a spacious lower level, doubling the living area.

The extensive wraparound porch leads to a separate outdoor entertaining space with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Perfection.

via Colleen

9. Wood Shake Pole Barn Construction

The gorgeous, bright kitchen is a stunning surprise in this rustic-looking pole barn build with wood shake siding. 

The A-frame second story offers expansive high ceilings, and the spacious porch is a perfect spot to enjoy the spectacular forest surroundings. Could you see yourself drinking coffee and watching the sun rise in this tranquil location?

via Conestoga Buildings

10. Fire Pits And Fairy Lights

Every detail was considered in the construction of this home. The barndominium interior features stunning details like the wooden ceiling with beam detail and stone walls. 

The outdoor space is a paradise with a hot tub, fire pit, built-in barbecue area, and dining space. And the expansive garage with massive, vaulted ceilings will easily store all your toys. Did we save the best for last? You decide.

via Farmhouse Lifestyle

The company Harbor Cottage Houseboats is a leader in the build of floating homes which are of large sizes.

Fortunately, they also do smaller projects that we fell in love with.

They have given them the name “tiny boat” and are just adorable.

Many of you may imagine a small boat home when they first hear the name of the US company project.

You are going to be surprised that it is not small at all! Space is so cleverly optimized that you would have anything a regular full-size home has!

What’s included?

The tiny boat features a sleeping loft with size 7’ x 7’, a family room with size 13’ x 15’, a kitchen –  11’ x 10’, an entry Foyer – 4’ 6” x 4’ and a bedroom with size 9’ 6” x 11’.

The sleeping places are 6 in total – a master bedroom, a lower stateroom and a murphy wall bed – all being comfortable and cozy!

The comfort is complemented by luxury and spacious bathroom. There are a full-size toilet and a bathtub with a shower. The hot water is provided by an electric 50 gal water heater.

Your kitchen will be equipped with all possible appliances that you would need- a stove, a microwave, a refrigerator, a dishwasher, a washer and a dryer.

You can enjoy the outdoor environment on the two porches enclosed with railings for safety reasons and the 400 sqft sun deck on the roof of the boat.

The designers of the tiny boat have used all possible space to create large and optimized outdoor places that can be used for different activities – sunbathing, fishing, reading a book or only to relax. 

The sun deck may be equipped with a hot tub where you can relax during the colder days while enjoying the surrounding nature. There is also a slide, a diving board, and a roof bar.

The tiny home is energy efficient. It is fully insulated in walls, ceiling and floor via the installed high-quality windows and the efficient central heat pump which ensures the desired internal temperature.

The manufacturer of these tiny boats guarantees the luxury and convenience of the space. If you have your own perception of interior design, you can customize it to suit your individual preferences.

From furniture to appliances, decor, countertops, paint colors, flooring, faucets, hardware, light fixtures. Just let the company know your wish and they will make it come true.

If you have doubts about whether to own such a lovely tiny home, Harbor Cottage Houseboats is ready to rent you one. It is no doubt that you would rather want to own that floating home once you have seen and tried it yourself!

In case you are eager to get your tiny boat, the manufacturer will deliver it to the lake of your choice, regardless of the distance. Another advantage they could offer is cooperation for the financing of the project by recommending you to several lenders.

Have you planned your vacation already? Get your tiny boat and get the most of it!

Do you have a big yard? Have you ever thought about utilizing it in the best possible way?

We have found a great and strategic way to do that – get your portable building!

What is that? This is a house that is customized in size suitable for your yard space and which can be used for various purposes.

It can be a guest house, an office, a man cave or she-shed, a storage space, a party place, a coffee shop, a bakery or only a place to break the monotony of the daily life. The possibilities are endless!

Here are some ideas about how such portable houses can be used.

A we-shed cabin with а shared porch. Love that idea?

Why Ws-Shed?

Get one for you and your partner and you will be both happy with your private spaces. Use them as home offices, as party places, as hobby lofts.

Your imagination can create a cozy space inside. Place two rocking chairs to enjoy the sunset at night. Decorate the porch with some greenery, lights and you would create a fairy place in your yard.

A lovely escape-from-the-reality cabin! We love the idea of a double bed and the lights.

This is the perfect place not only for you but also for a family that has come to visit you for a while.

The space in this guest house is enough to accommodate two adults with their children and why not their beloved pets? The interior shows natural materials and wide windows that make the place even cozier.

Here is a practical idea for how to use the space of the cabin. A living room on the first level and a small bedroom on the second level.

That is just the cleverest decision – to create all the living areas a person may need in a house, even a smaller one.

Place a couch, a table, hang on some interesting signs on the walls and you would have a comfortable and yet unconventional living space.

Here is how the portable buildings look like at the outside. They isn’t any compromise with their outer appearance.

They look like any other house with attention to every detail.

The manufacturer of these portable buildings offers a lot of variety in styles, colors, materials and sizes.

They are assisting in the financing process providing online application for loan and also a rent-to-own option. The delivery and the set up are free.

The construction of the portable house is usually made preliminary.  The house you have purchased usually comes to you in finished condition.

If you cannot provide approximately a 2 ft wider path than the width of your building to deliver the cabin fully assembled, the option the manufacturer offers is to assemble it on site. Don’t worry if you need to go for that option. It will be built fast and efficiently.

We should place emphasis on the solidity and the quality of the portable houses.

Although the house seems a light construction, it is actually made of rigid and resistant materials which will ensure the long life of your portable cabin.

The roof is made of 30-year metal; the siding is of top quality and the most preferred by the industry type, you can choose between urethane and metal siding; the floor is designed and warranted specifically for shed use, it is foam insulated at the inside to keep the temperatures stable.

If you are not certain what cabin would suit best your yard, you can try out the free online software of the manufacturer.

Select style among 16 options, colors of the roof, the siding and the trim. You can add as many doors and windows you need and visualize virtually your dream building.

The size of the buildings they offer is measured by length- from front to back along the floor platform.  The sizes start from 6’x10′ up to 16’x54′. For width measurements, all 8′, 10′, and 14′ wide buildings are measured wall-to-wall, except 12′ wide buildings which are measured eave-to-eave.

You are given the option to choose the size of the building as well. Once you are happy with the design, you can send your request for instant calculation and quote.

The company that is building and selling these cabins offers financing cooperation which is paperless.

The approval is received within a business day. There are no contractor fees or prepayment fees. In addition to all these advantages, you can limit your loan within a certain period of time and thus spread your due amount into affordable monthly payments.

You can find more details and ideas here.

Do you need extra space for your private activities? Get your portable building right now!

We have written about a Farmhouse built-out of grain silos here, but this one project is even more adorable!

We will introduce to you an idea which has unnoticeably become a trend which we don’t want to end.

Turning unconventional spaces into an actual living space is difficult to imagine but is actually affordable, smart and long-lasting.

The story of that Texas grain silo transformed into a guesthouse is a memorable example of that on-going trend.

You can consider that idea for any home or space which needs a renovation. Our story is about Amy Kleinwatcher who found an unusable grain silo left.

She decided to turn it into a beautiful small house. She runs a website named Old World Antieks where you can find a lot of heirloom-worthy pieces.

She had some experience in building another house from recycled materials so she used the same construction method for her new project.

The tank she found was a 14-foot round grain silo. Using the professional support by Judy Kurtz she started her mission from a search for materials to be recycled for the interior of her project.

The final result is this breathtaking 1,000-square-foot guesthouse which includes a front porch, a small living room, a bedroom and a bath– everything a family needs to be comfortably accommodated for short or longer period of time.

Let’s take a look at each room and the materials used to create this unique interior.

Sitting area next to a sunny window.

She has painted the internal metal walls of the silo creating a vintage footprint through the aging finish.

The wooden material for the window and the door frame is reclaimed wood that Amy upcycled.

The metal holder on the wall is also reused. Some perforated rails nailed at the wall, wooden baskets at different height have created a functional section element.

She has used it to hold bottles and glasses but you can always use it for other purposes – as a bookshelf or as a plant holder, etc. The furniture is not much, just enough for a couple – two arm-chairs covered in leather that perfectly fit the small living space created in the silo.

As you can see there is a small table for the drinks as well as a DIY stool which can be used as an additional chair or for stretching your legs at the end of the long day.

The living area is complemented by a fixed at the bottom window frame board which creates an ideal working space.

Ann has decided to cover part of the walls with wood planks to create a cozy atmosphere for the work processes.

The window for that part of the silo is of strategic size to let the light come through easily and light up the entire work area.

An old gramophone and an antique table lamp are her way to leave us with the vintage feeling for that space.

The rustic interior bedroom leaves us speechless.

Recycled wood leftovers on the walls and on the floor, upcycled metal sheet plates, fantastic metal headboard and soft knitted blanket.

The windows have been taken from old doctor cabinets and the signs have not been taken off. The upcycled materials create a feeling from another era and are so eco-friendly.

Ann has perfectly combined these two trends to create a bedroom you would never leave.

The bathroom is very plain but at the same time has all you need -a recycled metal wash-basin, an old window frame used as a cosmetics shelf.

Walls are again covered in wooden planks to create the repetitive vintage aging effect.

That silo has even an entrance-hall!

A mix of wallpapers with wooden and tile patterns, two chairs, a small table, some plants. You can use this area on purpose or as a quiet place for reading a book or your favorite magazine.

The outside of the silo has not been changed at all.

The surface has been left untouched to remind us of the initial purpose of the silo and the impressive transformation of its application.

The porch has been made entirely from recycled wood material. Ann has decorated its ceiling with old machine hooks to hang on beautiful flowers.

The wooden beams are with carving which introduces us to the new usage of the silo from the entrance – a lovely small home that will take you away to another century.

The unconventional homes are eco-friendly and cost-effective to renovate. They may look simple on the outside but once you step inside you will be surprised by their interior and optimized space.

Have you already started picturing your upcycled silo home? Be creative, brave and self-driven and you will be satisfied with the end result. 

You might be interested in:

There Is A Farmhouse Built Out Of Grain Silos

A Grain Silo Turned Into Gazebo Could Be Your Best Summer Retreat

40 Best Farmhouse Interior Design Ideas To Add More Rustic Feel

If you have the chance to visit Yamhill County, Oregon be sure to pay a visit to this awesome farmhouse which is built out of three old grain silos.

Converting silos into a B&B is an unique idea that we haven’t seen before.

It takes a creative mind to come up with an idea like converting unused grain silos into luxurious guest rooms.

The result of this innovative transformation is Abbey Road Farm, a truly unique bed-and-breakfast located on a working farm in the heart of Oregon wine country.

The creative minds behind the conversion were John and Judi Stuart. After three decades of working in the insurance industry in Las Vegas, they decided to create a different sort of life by buying a farm.

When John Stuart had the vision to reimagine the grain silos and transform them to into livable space, he ran into some opposition from county planning officials.

John’s exposure to the quirky architecture of Las Vegas, where buildings with an unusual shape are common, had expanded his imagination to see the potential of the silos.

Eventually, he was successfully able to convince officials that they could be inhabited safely and legally. The look of the metal silos creates an industrial feeling that is perfectly balanced by the luxurious and comfortable interior.

The Stuarts originally had two grain silos, and they added a third one for better symmetry.

The next part of the vision was building a small adjoining house that expanded the square footage of the space further.

This small house and the three silos complement each other to form a unique shape. When the construction on the structure was completed, a luxurious bed-and-breakfast was born.

It consists of five circular suites, along with a parlor that’s ideal for the guests to hang out with each other.

The two outer silos each contain two guest rooms, one upstairs and one downstairs. The center silo only has a guest room upstairs, while the lower floor holds the communal sitting room.

The shape of the rooms is a reminder of the original purpose of the space. However, the silos have been transformed with every possible modern convenience.

Every suite has unique design elements, but the amenities are similar. Guests can enjoy a king-size bed that comes complete with a memory-foam top and quality linens.

The spacious bathrooms boast heated towel racks and a Jacuzzi tub. High-end fixtures and contemporary furnishings add to the sense of luxury.

The silo guest rooms are designed for livability, including comfortable armchairs, a warm color palette, and large windows that make the most out of the expansive views.

Every suite has a unique view, whether of the English garden, or the wide valley.

There is also a deck on the overlooking the property’s wetland and where you can spy ducks, blackbirds, and geese, among other birds.

Efficiency was one of the central values that guided the conversion of the space from agricultural storage to a modern inn.

The concrete floors of the silos use a radiant heating system that is powered by the gas hot water tank that provides heating for the entire structure.

The building was made extra cozy with foam insulation that was sprayed in between the interior walls and the metal exterior.

These measures of efficiency have paid off with much lower utility bills than could have been accomplished with a more conventional approach.

The project was thoughtfully constructed both for the comfort of the guests and for conserving energy.

One of the reasons the Stuarts moved to a farm was so that they could have access to the farm-to-table lifestyle by growing as much of their own food as possible.

Abbey Road is a working farm, and there are chickens, goats, sheep, and even llamas. Guests can enjoy a spectacular breakfast in which the eggs come from the farm’s own flock of free-range chickens.

The breakfast may also feature from goat cheese from the farm’s herd of goats, fruit from the orchards, and zucchini or pumpkin that grows in the garden.

Guests can also buy the goat cheese to take home with them as a flavorful souvenir of their unique experience.

The Stuarts’ decision to reuse the existing structure in their efforts to repurpose the farm was a bold design decision that makes the bed-and-breakfast entirely memorable.

The innovative design of the building incorporates the grain silos in a way that is fresh but also practical.

Guests can enjoy the unique novelty of staying in a room with round walls, a reminder of the original purpose of the space, while also having every possible comfort.

Abbey Road Farm’s picturesque location in the Willamette Valley, a region that’s famous for growing the grapes used in pinot noir, contributes to its country charm.

The property has even become a venue for weddings and other events. One of the other renovation projects at the farm was the reinvention of the horse barn into an event space that features a commercial-quality kitchen.

The property serves as an example of creative thinking, thoughtful design, and the power of imagination.

Learn more: http://abbeyroadfarm.com

You might be interested in:

A Grain Silo Turned Into Gazebo Could Be Your Best Summer Retreat

Texas Grain Silo Converted Into A Cute Guesthouse

40 Best Farmhouse Interior Design Ideas To Add More Rustic Feel

The tiny cabins are not just about looking cute but they are also part of an expanding tendency that encourages a sustainable way of living.

And that includes cutting electricity and water consumption as well as not being a slave of material possessions.

More and more interior designers and housebuilders have figured out innovative techniques to make these 20 square meters tiny home cabins wonderfully well-equipped and practical so they can replace the traditional large, expensive, difficult to maintain homes. See a comparison here.

Is that sound too unrealistic for you? Why don’t you have a look at my list of 25 amazing tiny portable cabins to get some inspiration?

1. Escape the City Life in a Cozy Cedar Bungalow

Photo: Credit

Built of rain-screen cedar and solid rock siding for extra stability, this cozy bungalow in the woods is full of custom features, including a welcoming, fully functional tiny porch where you can enjoy the view.

2. Live in Style with a Pine and Cedar Bungalow on a Trailer

Photo: Credit

Similar to most of the tiny log cabins, this cute pine-and-cedar bungalow (on the picture above) is constructed atop a metal truck trailer.

Can you believe it features a kitchen counter with a propane one-burner, a sleeping loft for 2 people, solar-powered lamps, a shower, composting toilet, and a sink?

3. Unwind and Reconnect in a Dreamy Cottage in the Alps

Photo: Credit

Formerly a corn and crop barn, this small, two-floor cottage which, I bet, you would all acclaim as a romantic getaway, might be the best choice for your next family holiday.

4. Create a Cozy Home Away from Home with a Backyard House

Photo: Credit

The blogger Megan Lea has made this petite backyard house out of reused materials.

It looks remarkably cozy with that fireplace and comfy sofa…it might be hard to leave it, right?

5. Enjoy Gaian Comfort with a Small Cedar Cabin

Photo: Credit

The cedar wood perfectly contrasts with the blackboard and baton siding that surround the bay window of this tiny bungalow.

As most of the tiny cedar cabins, care has been taken to use eco-friendly materials, from a solid bamboo countertops to the handcrafted light fixtures.

6. Enjoy a Safe and Private Vacation in a Beautiful Hide Away 

Photo: Credit

This little home comes complete with everything you will need for a proper vacation away from the office.

The large windows let the natural light entering the bungalow which makes more welcoming and cozy.

7. Enter a Mobile Luxury World with this Tiny Cabin

Photo: Credit

This might look as a tiny luxury cabin but it’s really a mobile Park Model RV.

This amazing combo between contemporary and rustic features a bedroom, bathroom, and joined kitchen – living room area.

The little deck creates an additional space for relaxing in the breezy summer nights.

8. Embrace Minimalism with a Charming Simple Cottage

Photo: Credit

Most of the tiny house cabins attract with their simple and very practical design.

The one on the picture above, for instance, forms an intimate and private space with definite visual bond to the landscape.

9. Upgrade Your Camping Experience with a Tiny Log Cabin

Photo: Credit

Far in the woods of Northern California, this primitive wooden bungalow is a great example of how to build a home with reclaimed wood and old windows from real ships.

10. Discover the Beauty of Nature with a Cabin in the Forest

Photo: Credit

One of the key ideas underlying in the concept of the tiny homes cabins is to live more sustainable.

In this line of thinking, having more windows means more sunlight and lower electricity bills!

11. Enjoy an All-Season Getaway with the A-Frame Cabin Home

Photo: Credit

Thinking of add a pinch of rustic in your life?

Then check out this A-frame, hand-built cabin home with a spacious porch where you can gather your friends and family.

The A-shape won’t allow the snow to stack on the roof.

12. Create an Unforgettable Family Retreat with a Studio Cottage

Photo: Credit

Located deep in the forest of the Tyringham Valley, this tiny wooden studio is the perfect hideaway spot for every family.

The large deck would fit up to 10 people so you can all freely enjoy the bird songs while sunbathing.

13. Discover Tranquility with a Railway Master Cottage

Settled on the edge of a forest and on a railway line, this tiny cottage was formerly a railway master’s house.

It might not offer the luxury the other tiny cabins do, however, it is a true escape from the stress of the everyday life.

14. Take a Break with an Amazing Staycation in a A-Frame Cabin

Photo: Credit

I’m thinking that resting in this extremely tiny but magnificent (and very close to nature) A-frame cabin would lend itself to some marvelous dreams and the sense that you have just time-traveled to a different world.

15. Combine Style and Sustainability with an Eco-Friendly Cabin

Photo: Credit

This hand-built escape – limited on space, high on charm – gives you the feeling for a substantial construction thanks to the solid wooden material used.

16. Create a Magical Wonderland with Your Log Cabin

Photo: Credit

Want to know how the elves and the gnomes live?

This unusual shaped, pretty cabin log, that costs about $2500, is mainly made out of reclaimed wood.

The extra floral elements make it even more welcoming and dreamy.

17. Enjoy Summer Breezes with a Chalet-Style Bungalow

Handbuilt and designed with lots of passion, this tiny, chalet style bungalow is nestled away in a lovely rural area but is still just seconds away from downtown Olympia, Washington so you can dive in the local culture and night life as well.

18. Give Your Timber Cabin a Contemporary Look

Photo: Credit

This lovely teeny tiny timber cabin features floor-to-ceiling wood paneling and large windows that let the sunlight entering the little space.

However, keep in mind that, opposite to most of the tiny green cabins, this one does not have a deck to enjoy the surrounding.

19. Escape to Nature with a Modern Tree House

I love the tiny cabins in the woods, built around trees, which makes them look even more compact and unique.

Moreover, they won’t cost a fortune if you use reclaimed wood and other recycled materials.

20. Beat the Summer Heat with a Straw Roof Bungalow

Photo: Credit

This lively, colorful bungalow is the perfect choice for a summer home on the seaside.

The straw roof provides enough shade so you won’t get burned while the deck is pretty spacious to enjoy a glass of Mojito.

21. Enjoy Your Summer Days in an Idyllic Spot around the Lake 

Photo: Credit

One of the biggest advantages of the tiny cabins is the fact they can built almost everywhere as they don’t need to much space.

Choose a spot where you’ll be able to enjoy a breath taking view and keep your mind away from the everyday problems…such as this summer cottage around a lake.

22. Unwind in Nature with a Simple Wooden Hut

Photo: Credit

This wood hut might look very simple to build due to the basic, classic design, however, don’t let it fool you!

This home, located deep in the forest, can really be turned into your dream-hideaway with a little creativity and research.

23. Experience Contemporary Rustic Living with a Family Mansion

This tiny house is a whole family mension, offering something for each one of you.

See, you are getting a home with a basement, one bedroom, one bathroom, living room space, and a kitchenette. That is a lot to be given in one tiny package, eh?

24. Enjoy Custom Features and Beautiful Views with Rustic Nests

Who needs more than spending half of the year in one of the Spanish or Greek islands and a simple roof above the head?

This primitive, rustic nest offers everything needed but still keeps you away from the busy city life.

25. Escape from Reality with an Alpine Style Tiny Cottage

This cabin sits on a remote site in the woods.

Quadratic in shape, this constructions allows a full usage of the available space.

In order to minimize the irregularity to the landscape, a considerable part of the cabin is lifted above the ground.

Depart from the city with a short rest on one of these exceptional and inspirational tiny green cabins. Or even building one of these for you and your family? This surely is a lot of people’s dream life.

Imagine yourself sitting in a cozy wood cottage by the hot fireplace, feeling the fresh air, at night going outside for stargazing is spectacular!