Finding a build space
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EmailOne of the crucial steps to building a tiny house is finding a place construction site. This can be tricky depending on local zoning, HOAs and other obstacles.
By: Tiffany Pupa, Interior Design senior and Sparty's Cabin project lead
One of the crucial steps to building a tiny house is finding a place construction site. This can be tricky depending on local zoning, HOAs and other obstacles. Luckily, we are building Sparty’s Cabin on campus, meaning we are building on private property owned by MSU. With the proper permission, choosing a build site was simplified.
We had two options for potential build sites. Option A was MSU’s Turf Grass facilities in a large pole barn. This site offered us beautiful views of south campus, a sheltered environment and friendly employees. However, the garage door was only 12’ tall, and our tiny house will be 13’5” tall (no taller due to road restrictions). It’s a good thing we noticed this before starting the build!
Option B was at the MSU Surplus and Recycling Center. This large warehouse is heated, provides shelter, and has a wonderful lounge space for us to take breaks/meet in. We are working in the Materials Recovery Facility, or the “MERF”. This is where all the recyclables are crushed and packed together. This warehouse has a 20’ door, so our tiny house will easily make it out. The Recycling Center is open on Fridays, so we have to be careful when we are working. We wear bright construction vests so the fork lift drivers can clearly see us.
It’s really interesting building in this space, and once you get past the unique aroma, it has a wonderful atmosphere. We are all enjoying learning more about recycling. The break room has a “no trash” policy, and has challenged our sorting skills and made us more aware of our waste. We also have been recycling our construction waste! My favorite part about working in the Recycling Center is getting the natural light from all the windows in the lounge, and opening the garage doors in the MERF to make the most of this spring weather!
