This House Is Only 200 Square Feet. Here’s What the Kitchen Looks Like.
America’s fascination with unconventional living arrangements (ahem, tiny homes) is showing no signs of slowing down. It used to be that the only time I ever came across a tiny home was while watching HGTV, but nowadays you can press a few buttons and buy your very own on Amazon. It’s wild.
Perhaps the reason we can’t get enough of tiny homes is because everyone has the same single question on their minds about them: How do people store all their stuff? The answer to that question is different for everyone. In the case of Rebekah and Alex Carey, who live in this 200-square-foot converted 1905 garage in Berkeley, California — along with their three (!!!) dogs — efficiency is key. And that might be the biggest understatement ever.
The couple, whose House Tour was first featured on Apartment Therapy, saw some major potential in the garage in Rebekah’s grandmother’s backyard. The undertaking was what they called “the most laborious DIY project ever,” but definitely worth the effort. With a few clever design choices, they were able to include everything they needed: a sleeping area, guest seating, a bar cart, a couch, and, yes, even a kitchen (which is, in my opinion, the most efficient part of their cozy house).
Let’s play a game of I Spy the Carey’s Kitchen. If you blink you’ll miss it. Raise your hand if you see it. (While you’re looking check out that efficient lofted storage space — a prime use of otherwise-wasted real estate.)
What about now? Have you spotted it? Yup, the kitchen is conveniently next to the cozy love seat, so guests can hang while Rebekah and Alex get the party started in the kitchen. Fun fact: The couple tend to move the couch around, depending on the situation.
There she is! If you’re wondering where the fridge is, it’s the bottom section of the two-burner stove/sink combo (which the couple found on Craigslist). When Rebekah and Alex are not using the sink to wash the dishes, they place a cutting board over the basin to create a tiny countertop. Can you see it now?
The pantry in this kitchen nook is a repurposed metal locker that Rebekah found at a garage sale.
While they might be short on space, the Careys are not short on charming touches. This utensil holder (also vintage) was a find the couple scored in France.
Although the kitchen is super tiny, the couple managed to create a separate small bar area by their Murphy bed, which they fold down at night and up during the day to create more space.
One of the perks of California living is that the Careys don’t have to spend all of their time cooped up inside (although they could and be totally happy!). This outdoor seating area — with room for everyone! — is where they spend most of their time.
It’s safe to say that the Careys are doing tiny home living right. I’m feeling inspired, but can someone please stop me before I purchase my own tiny home on Amazon? PLEASE.
See the rest of the house here: A Couple and Three Dogs Share a 200-Square-Food “Bitty Berkeley Bungalow” at Apartment Therapy
What’s your favorite part about the Carey’s unconventional kitchen?