More and more people are trading in their multi-bedroom suburban homes for something more humble—a tiny home. This movement, often referred to as the Tiny House Revolution, has captivated many who are drawn to its promise of simplicity, financial freedom, and a smaller ecological footprint. For some, like designer Vina Lustado, it's about more than just downsizing—it's a milestone in personal development and a way to live in harmony with the environment.
Vina, with over 20 years of design experience, shifted her focus from corporate high-end projects to smaller-scale, sustainable designs that make a positive difference. Her own tiny home in Ojai is a testament to this shift, showcasing both her passion for sustainability and her design expertise.
A Tour of Vina's Tiny Paradise
Vina’s home is a modern, eco-friendly marvel. With its solar orientation, natural lighting, and domestically sourced cedar siding, every inch of the exterior reflects her commitment to the environment. The deck, made from reclaimed materials, is another example of how she preserved natural resources by re-sanding and staining fallen tree wood.
Inside, Vina's home demonstrates the power of efficient, multi-functional spaces. The "great room" serves as a living room, dining area, yoga studio, and even an office—all within 140 square feet on the first floor, with an additional 80 square feet in the mezzanine-level loft.
"It's important to have your space be multi-functional," Vina says, pointing out her clever use of storage and minimalistic design to avoid clutter in such a small area.
Thoughtful Design for Tiny Living
Vina's kitchen is a model of organization and efficiency, with open shelving that creates an airy, spacious feel. What sets her kitchen apart is her wardrobe—yes, her clothes are stored right there in the kitchen! This creative use of space is essential in tiny living, where every square inch must serve a purpose.
The bathroom, like the rest of her home, reflects her eco-conscious mindset. With a full-tiled shower and a composting toilet that feeds into a gray water system, Vina’s bathroom is entirely environmentally friendly, using no water and eliminating the need for black water systems.
Tiny Homes, Big Impact
Vina Lustado’s tiny home is more than just a place to live; it’s an expression of her passion for sustainability and simple living. Through thoughtful design and the use of reclaimed materials, Vina has created a space that is as functional as it is beautiful.
Her story is an inspiration for anyone looking to make a difference in the world—one tiny house at a time. The Tiny House Revolution is about more than downsizing—it's about rethinking the way we live, how we consume, and how we interact with our environment. In the words of Vina, tiny living is "a lesson on how we can make a difference and impact our world, one tiny house at a time."
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