Scott Sims, once a pre-architecture major at the University of Minnesota, has always had an interest in the aesthetics and functionality of buildings, and is now putting those skills to the test by creating construction plans for tiny spaces. The units Sims designs, which are 12 feet wide by 10 feet deep, cost anywhere from $1300 to $2500, depending on finishes and furnishings. They can be assembled by a contractor or an individual with the needed skill set. “On a scale of one to 10 for skill level, it probably takes a 6 or 7 to build it,” Sims says. There are several parts to fit together initially, but assembly or disassembly only takes one person.
Sims has goals of his own for the business. “My intent is to work with licensed contractors to build these for people,” he says. “I fully intend at some point to build one of these for myself.”
The design is incredibly versatile: just one unit can be built, or multiple units can be combined depending on your needs, from a small shed to a complete home. Wood shingles, a porch, stone pillar work and more can be added. Modification possibilities are endless, plus, Sims observes, “you literally would not have to be indebted to a bank for 20 to 30 years.”
