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New Life for Small Towns: Tiny Houses

New Life for Small Towns: Tiny Houses

Katelin Mathews

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Published

04.15.2025

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Travel

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31

On the main street of the village of Freeville, significant changes occurred in New York. Instead of an old dilapidated single -family house on a plot of 2.8 akra, a real fairy tale is now located - a dozen tiny houses inspired by the architecture of Gothic cottages. These miniature houses, surrounded by high pines, create an atmosphere of comfort and contribute to the emergence of a cohesive community.

Inspiration and birth of an idea

The idea of ​​creating a small settlement was developed by the local developer Bruno Shikkel. His path in construction began as an ordinary contractor who was engaged in erecting and repairing traditional houses. However, the fateful moment occurred in the late 1990s, when, reading the children's book to his daughters, he saw the illustration of the magnificent Gothic cottage in the state of Maine. This scene made an indelible impression on him, and Bruno said: "I must design something like that." So the idea was born, which later embodied in a successful project.

Features and advantages of the concept

The mini-house project demonstrated that even the smallest settlements can transform the appearance of a small town. Here are a few key features of this concept:

  • Savings of space: The use of compact houses allows you to place more residents in the same area, which is especially important against the background of a housing deficiency.
  • Coated community: The neighborhood of small houses helps to establish close ties between residents, making constant communication and mutual assistance possible.
  • Architectural individuality: Each building has a fabulous, almost magical appearance, which attracts the attention of not only residents, but also tourists interested in modern architecture trends.
  • Lack of excessive restrictions: The project became possible thanks to the flexible land use standards, which includes not too strict zoning rules.

Advantages for small towns

The revival of small settlements is an important task in the context of modern urbanization. Small cities, faced with the problems of a demographic decline, need new ideas that can breathe fresh life into their infrastructure. Tiny houses help:

  • Attract young families looking for cozy and affordable housing in small settlements;
  • Stimulate the development of small business: From cafes and benches to craft workshops, which can open in close proximity to houses;
  • Preserve the cultural heritage of the region , introducing elements of traditional architecture with a modern approach to design;
  • Create an attractive tourist direction For those who seek a unique vacation outside the city fuss.

Conclusion

The project in Freeville is a vivid example of how a new vision can change the appearance of a whole community. Inspired by the children's book and embodied thanks to freedom in the planning of urban development, this village opens up new prospects for the development of small cities in the United States. He demonstrates that even a modest area can become the basis for creating a cozy, modern and functional housing for a wide range of people. Observing the success of such projects, we can say with confidence: the future of small cities can be filled not only by nostalgia for the past, but also with fresh ideas that give hope for prosperity and development.

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Top Comments

  • Patricia Harris

    I love how well-researched and articulate the piece is.

  • Michael Johnson

    Really enjoyed the analysis on current events.