Architecture: A Frame, Best Frame

So much open space!

You may have heard that I have a recent obsession with A Frames. It stems from the Tiny House epidemic that is sweeping the nation (err... nation of practical Millenials that is) and follows a lot of the same principles. If I'm going to own a house, it's got to allow for expansion as approach, offer tons of natural light, give me a wide open floor plan, and stay small in the spirit of the Tiny House movement. 

That ability to expand, one side and one direction at a time, is a fantastic feature of the A Frame. You're able to build the main structure in one go, then as your family grows or your interests expand, you can build appropriate extensions as needed without the home getting that awkward shape that comes when an addition is slapped on the rear. 

One of my favorite features of the A Frame style is the front window wall that every home seems to have. It flood the interior with light, and blends the border between indoor and outdoor living which is essential in a small home. Kick it up a notch by building up on a platform to secure a fantastic elevated view.

This Japanese A Frame does a great job of capturing the view looking out. The circular middle window is a great example of the way you can ground or center the window wall with some interesting details instead of using overlapping rectangles. 

Or, you can add some privacy to the sleeping loft by using diamond windows on their side along the border of the A Frame's highest point instead of a pure window wall. What a perfect hybrid of preserving the light and natural view, without losing the privacy and practicality that you need in a bedroom. 

One of the best parts about A Frames is the potential to blend those window walls with show stoppers. If you want to preserve floor space, it just makes sense to put incredible built in book shelves along that back wall. There is a risk here of creating serious clutter for the eye and distracting from the amazing views, but if you're itching to add a library to your small home this certainly seems like the best approach.

Alright, Tiny House Nation, anyone itching to buy some land and build a commune?