What is a Tiny House Community?
A tiny house community is a planned living area where multiple tiny houses are built close to one another.
The people that live in such communities usually share the same amenities and public spaces. Residents typically share similar values, such as minimalism, sustainability, and a desire to live a simpler life.
These communities can be set up as permanent developments or as temporary settlements, depending on local regulations and the preferences of the residents.
They are especially popular in North America at the moment.
Micro Living: 40 Innovative Tiny Houses Equipped for Full-Time Living, in 400 Square Feet or Less
Are there Tiny House Communities in Ireland?
In 2017, a motion was passed by the Government to permit a Tiny House pilot project in Naas. However, after carrying out extensive research, I was unable to find out if this project was actually carried out or not.
As far as I can tell, there are no legal tiny house communities in Ireland. However, there are groups online where people who share a common mindset towards simple living can come together. Ultimately, they want to put pressure on the government to make tiny houses and tiny house communities more accessible.
The largest of such groups in Ireland is Tiny Homes Ireland.
There are also tiny home communities for learning, not living. See two of the more prominent ones below:
1. Our Common Knowledge – Tigin Tiny Homes
Based in West Cork, Our Common Knowledge is an inspiring social enterprise dedicated to teaching people how to build, grow, and live more independently. Their workshops cover natural building, off-grid systems, composting toilets, tiny homes and DIY skills.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Offers hands-on training in natural building materials.
- Runs community-led workshops in carpentry, solar energy, and eco-living.
- Focuses on affordable, replicable housing solutions for rural Ireland.
- Encourages collaboration, inclusivity, and practical learning. Not just theory.
2. Small Change – Tiny Houses by Paul Lawford
Founded by architect Paul Lawford, Small Change is another brilliant initiative working to make housing more accessible and sustainable. Rather than focusing on profit-driven construction, Small Change explores designs that focus on social value, waste reduction and affordability.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Promotes community housing models, including co-housing and small-scale living.
- Partners with local authorities, universities, and self-builders to explore policy change.
- Provides design education and public talks to help people understand how planning, design, and sustainability intersect.
- Champions the idea that small, well-designed spaces can have a big social impact.
Paul Lawford’s work highlights how Ireland can rethink its housing design, and focus on what we actually need, and not what ads disctate.
Why is There a Need for Tiny Homes?
One big reason for tiny houses is that they are a much cheaper alternative to buying a traditional house today in Ireland.
A tiny home can cost up to 40,000euros while a conventional 1-room flat well outside of Dublin would cost you at least 100,000 euros.
As of 2023, 68% of adults in Ireland aged between 25-29 still live with their parents. For better context, this is more than 25% higher than the EU average.
What are the Regulations for Tiny Homes in Ireland?
You need planning permission to build any home, no matter the size. So always make sure to consult with your local council first before you start building or buying. However, there are exceptions as long as long as living is not the primary use for the home.
And due to the small cost of the Tiny Home, you might not be able to get a mortgage to pay for it. However, a regular loan would suffice.
For more info on tiny homes, see our links below.
USEFUL LINKS
