Time was ticking for Allyson, and she knew she had to devise a retirement plan.
The divorced mom was in her mid-50s when she realized she couldn’t afford to pay rent once she retired.
Her savings were not enough to get her through retirement.
Allyson knew she had to come up with a more economical plan.
That’s when she thought of building her tiny house that she named Daisy.
The empty-nester got to downsizing.
She sold and gave away all of her possessions that she didn’t need, all so she could embrace the new, freeing lifestyle.
But Allyson didn’t just have her home built by others, she actually got her hands in on the projects too!
After learning different skills and with guidance from a carpenter, she gradually began building her new home – only turning to assistance when it was necessary.
In the end, all of her hard work paid off.
It’s a lovely home that has everything she needs. From an open garden space outside to welcome family and guests to cozy interiors that she designed so she would enjoy her retirement.
Plus, she wouldn’t feel too far away from family because she had some artwork by her children around her home.
Allyson knew that she wanted a comfortable living area.
She created a sofa out of Ikea shelvings that she laid sideways so she could use the shelves for storage.
That’s where she added removable drawers where she keeps various stuff like her dog’s toys, her hobby materials, and shoes.
She created her little reading nook because she knew she would spend most of her retirement there.
It has her favorite red leather chair with a reclining headrest and folding footstool.
It sits next to an oil-filled radiator that helps warm the room, topped with a sanded wood block perfect for a simple coffee table.
Beside the sofa is a table or counter that she tailored to fit for eating and working.
Allyson built it to suit her height so she could comfortably do her paper works and other artistic hobbies.
She had a few shelves that she made from attending a women’s woodworking workshop, which she used as a cabinet to keep her office supplies.
Allyson positioned her kitchen strategically to maximize the space around it.
This white wall across the kitchen counter and sink adds to her home’s storage.
That’s where she kept her cleaning supplies, house tools, washer-dryer machine, electronics, etc.
Actually, this white wall is underneath the stairs, and Allyson uses the higher steps of the stairs perfectly situated across the stove to place some items she needs to use while cooking for easier access.
Allyson’s kitchen is a gorgeous spot to enjoy.
Her kitchen is spacious, with enough counter space to do a decent amount of cooking, and the sink is big and deep enough to wash pots and pans and even bathe her dog, Tucker.
But what’s cool about her kitchen is her countertop! Notice how it looks?
It’s made from different types of broken glass – from wine and beer bottles to other colored jars.
It was made with resin, so they stay together, and the result is a beautiful, repurposed counter for her kitchen and dining area.
The highlight of Allyson’s home is the outdoor space.
She loves spending time with family, friends, and neighbors, and the outside seating was perfect for a cup of coffee or tea. There’s also a garden with various plants that she planted herself.
Allyson wanted an outdoor area like this because she said having a tiny home would push you to do more outside.
For the divorced mom, transitioning to tiny living has been the most wonderful experience.
She shared with Tiny Home Tours:
“It’s probably been the best experience of my life. There’s a freedom in owning only what you need – and having a place that’s totally your own and is a sanctuary. And that’s what this is for me – Daisy is my sanctuary.”
Check out the video below for a full tour of Allyson’s tiny home and to find out how she made it all happen!
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