Japanese minimalism fits perfectly into the tiny house movement. It’s about living a simpler and uncomplicated life, with only what you really need and nothing more. The Gables tiny house on wheels reflects this unique approach to simplicity in the most sincere way.
This compact 32-foot (approximately 9.7 meters) dwelling is a custom design created by Nomad Tiny Homes, a family-owned company based in Austin, Texas, that started their journey in building tiny homes in 2016. They mainly focus on custom-made tiny homes that reflect the personalities and lifestyles of their owners. All of their designs stand out through sophisticated aesthetics, high quality, and functionality.
Japanese minimalism, often described as the art of abstaining from unnecessary things, can teach people who decide to downsize their homes how to embrace a more intentional lifestyle. Embracing life in small spaces is synonymous with embracing a simpler lifestyle. Since tiny houses offer limited living space, residents naturally have to let go and keep only those material possessions that they truly need. That’s why these two concepts blend so well together.
The Gables house impresses upon entering, providing an incredible sense of freedom, partly due to the contemporary open-plan layout and minimalist interior, and partly due to the large windows that make you feel part of nature.
Built on a dual-axle trailer, this house takes its name from the unique gable roof with dormers that enhances its visual appeal. The sleek exterior is clad in Shou Sugi Ban wood (burnt cedar), a low-maintenance, exceptionally durable, and sustainable material with an intriguing charred appearance that highlights the natural grain of the wood and creates textural interest. The company also offers the option of stained pine cladding for this model.
The interior of the tiny Gables house demonstrates that you don’t need to own a wooden cabin to feel like you’re living in one. With all walls and ceilings covered in horizontally placed cedar boards, this house exudes rustic vibes with a warm and calm atmosphere.
Dominating with minimalism and clean aesthetics, the interior is highly functional and versatile, with a spacious layout optimized to accommodate a small family. The plan is incredibly open, with the only confined spaces behind doors being the bathroom and the storage space under the stairs. This gives depth to the house and creates a seamless flow between all functional areas. Even the two sleeping lofts are open to the lower area, with minimal railing for protection.
Upon entering through the full light door, you are greeted with a beautiful kitchen that balances simplicity, subtlety, and natural elements. To continue the inspiration in Japanese design, the builders have created a clutter-free kitchen space with minimal decoration. Some cabinets offer storage space, complemented by a few open shelves for glasses and dishes. However, minimalist design does not mean you have to compromise functionality, as this kitchen is well-equipped with an induction cooktop, oven, farmhouse sink, and full-size refrigerator.
Surrounded on three sides by windows, the living room occupies the rear end of the house and is a space for both relaxation and socializing and entertainment. A simple yet comfortable sofa and some pillows give the space a peaceful and meditative feel, inviting you to relax and enjoy the surrounding views.
Between the lounge and the kitchen, there is a versatile dining area with an unusually long breakfast counter placed under a panoramic window. It can comfortably be used by at least two people and can easily double as a workspace.
The sleeping spaces within this micro-house are your typical crawl lofts but stand out for their cozy atmosphere and open design. Of course, if you don’t need the extra bedroom, one of the lofts can be used to store larger personal belongings.
The staircase leading to the main loft is another ingenious feature of this house. While most storage-integrated stairs have drawers and cabinets, the designers at Gables opted for a closet under the stairs with a full door at the back offering access to the interior.
The bathroom is located next to the kitchen and is surprisingly stylish. As expected from a tiny house, it is compact but beautifully designed and highly functional, with a tiled shower, toilet, a large vanity for storage, and a sink integrated into the countertop. There is also additional storage for towels and hygiene products next to the shower enclosure.
In addition to minimalist decoration and furniture, another way to achieve the Japanese design aesthetic is through the use of natural lighting. As a result, the Gables model includes many windows that allow abundant sunlight to enter, illuminating the interior. Another advantage of extensive glazing is that residents can connect with the surrounding environment, regardless of where they are inside the house.
With its peaceful simplicity and unpretentious interior style, the Gables tiny house is perfect for those who want to take a step back, reprioritize, and enjoy the simpler things in life.
