There are several North American builders creating tiny houses for colder regions, but the Japanese maker Ikigai Collective stands out by utilizing cultural design philosophies in its builds. The 6-meter Nozawa tiny house is a great example where several winter-climate-ready features are built into its core architecture. The motive is to create a dwelling for year-round use.
Based on a double-axle trailer, this tiny house measures just 20 feet (6 meters) long, which is comparatively on the smaller side than North American and even European builders. The build combines traditional Japanese aesthetics and multi-functional space-saving techniques. The most compelling feature is the unique divided loft layout that helps you make the most out of the available space.
On the outside, it pairs Galvalume steel with cedar wood cladding along with a pitched roof. One thing worth attention is INOAC THERMAX closed-cell PIR insulation that allows for thinner walls while delivering great thermal performance. Furthermore, the YKK Episode II Neo windows offer ultimate protection against freezing frame drafts, window mold, and highway-speed rain leaks.
The interior space looks more impressive thanks to its cabin-esque layout, but it utilizes the same cedar wood paneling. Japanese-engineered interior flooring makes it capable of withstanding heavy wear and temperature shifts without warping. Other standard winter features include 24-hour ventilation, a sliding roof, and moisture and vapor barriers. Heating, pipe heaters, and cold-region appliances allow owners to live in cold regions comfortably.
The Nozawa tiny house spans two floors. Once inside, you find a cozy living area to the left and a kitchen/dining area directly ahead. What is unique about this area is that it is located just below the main sleeping area on the mezzanine level. Owing to the tatami-style seating, it provides enough headroom. The bedroom is situated above the living room, utilizing vertical space that is quite valuable in tiny house builds. It is accessible by a removable ladder and is large enough to accommodate a double bed and a wall-mounted TV.
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The kitchen also looks spacious and includes large sliding windows to maximize outside views. It includes ample cabinetry and a wooden dining table for two, which can also serve as a workspace. The full-size bathroom is tucked onto the other side of the tiny house and is accessed through a sliding wooden door. It has a shower, a flushing toilet, and a small sink along with storage underneath.
The Nozawa tiny house can be purchased on the official website, with a starting price of ¥10,800,000 (roughly $66,600). However, there is no word about its international availability.
