Tiny homes are unique not only in their size but sometimes in the core foundations of the structure itself. Some people build inside abandoned water towers, some use the interiors of discarded jetliners, and some even use school buses to make their houses more mobile.
But an architect pushed the envelope on things you can use to build your lovely tiny home. When you see his build, you’ll ask yourself, “Would I live inside a dumpster?”
Harrison Marshal, an architect and former construction worker, executed the bold idea.
Upon his return to London, he found himself in the mild of a whirlwind of exorbitant rent prices and limited housing options.
He then decided to just build his own using the limited materials he has. While others chose more practical structures as core to their build, Marshal wanted to make a statement.
He built a house on top of a garbage dumpster.
His unconventional living arrangement did not only serve as a practical solution but also aimed to shed light on the continuously escalating housing crisis not only in London but in almost all major cities.
Marshal used the building skills he learned to realize the project. Having spent years involved in different types of architectural projects, especially in turning dumpsters into structures, Marshal had the necessary skills to design and construct his compact home.
The total resources he spent on the house? A month and $4,800. Thankfully, with the help of an arts organization, he secured a lease to a plot of land where he can place the house. In return, his place became some sort of art installation that tells about the human condition.
After three months, Marshal was adjusting well to his home.
Accessing the interior requires the use of a ladder, as the entrance is elevated due to the shape of the skip. Although the unconventional entryway might take some getting used to, it also serves as built-in seating when hosting guests.
Marshal created a superstructure that fans out as you get higher. This enabled him to construct a loft with a bed with ample space for him to lie down on.
The more challenging parts of the house come from plumbing.
When washing dishes, he had to fill a large jar with his neighbor’s water. He also takes a bath in the gym or in their office. He shared in a video with CNBC that it doesn’t pose much of an issue because he doesn’t go to the office every day.
For this “number 2,” he has a portable outdoor toilet located on the far edge of the lot. Despite these inconveniences, he has access to water for drinking, cooking, cleaning, and emergency sink usage.
Even with a home this small, Marshal managed to decorate it.
Marshal adorned the walls with artwork created by friends and family, including a cherished drawing from his father and a poem composed by his mother specifically about the Skip House.
It is indeed quite a strange house. But more than that, it stands as a reflection of where we are today. In an article he wrote for Insider, Marshal reflects on his unique living situation.
While there are inconveniences that can obviously get in the way, there are also a lot of things to be thankful for such as the opportunity to live a minimalistic and more deliberate lifestyle.
Watch how this man turned a garbage dump into a tiny house.
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