Tiny Homes vs. Park Model Homes - What does it all MEAN?

The Need for Alternative Housing

As inflation rises, interest rates climb, and wages stagnate, Americans find themselves in the throes of an unprecedented housing crisis. According to a recent survey, 18% of Millennials (aged 28-43) and 12% of Gen Z'ers (aged 12-27) fear they may never own a home. This dire need for alternative housing options has sparked innovation, bringing to the forefront solutions like Tiny Homes and Park Model Homes.

What’s a Tiny Home?

The term “Tiny Home” encompasses a broad spectrum of compact living spaces, typically 1000 square feet or less. They can be fixed on a foundation or mounted on a trailer, often serving as full-time residences or additional dwelling units like mother-in-law suites or Airbnb spaces. Recent updates to regulations regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in Deschutes County have made Tiny Homes a more viable option for homeowners seeking to expand their living arrangements.

While Tiny Homes promote a minimalist lifestyle and offer versatility for property owners, they face limitations in size and zoning restrictions, notably height limitations for highway travel during delivery. However, they are an excellent solution for a variety of scenarios from a college student wanting their own space at home to a guest suite.

What’s a Park Model Home?

Park Model Homes are compact dwellings, always 400 square feet or less, constructed and delivered on a trailer. Regulated by ANSI A119.5 standards, the very standards used for RV regulations, these homes boast mobility and convenience, making them suitable for full-time living or seasonal stays at recreational properties. Their adherence to RV standards facilitates easier insurance coverage, distinguishing them from traditional Tiny Homes.

The mobility of Park Model Homes opens doors to various lifestyle options, from seasonal travel adventures to off-grid living, enhanced by the potential for solar power and alternative energy sources. Picture a summer full of traveling to our nation’s National Parks - all in your very own home!

Community and Off-Grid Living

Park Model Homes, in particular, excel in fostering community living arrangements. Imagine pooling resources with friends to acquire a shared property, each resident enjoying their own compact dwelling while fostering a tight-knit community atmosphere. This approach to living appeals to many seeking a simpler, more interconnected lifestyle.

Moreover, the rising popularity of off-grid living amplifies the appeal of both Tiny Homes and Park Models, offering self-sufficiency and environmental consciousness. Any of our units can be outfitted with solar and other alternative energy options.

Viable Solutions to the Crisis

In navigating the housing crisis, both Tiny Homes and Park Model Homes emerge as practical solutions. Whether you crave a quieter, minimalist lifestyle or seek flexibility in your living arrangements, Tamarack Sheds offers an array of customizable options to suit your needs. Explore our portfolio of Tiny Homes and Park Models on our website, read our FAQ page, and reach out to us with any inquiries.
Remember, if you can dream it, we can build it!



4 Unique Uses for our Desert Sky 4

The Analytics Don’t Lie!

Our most popular and engaged unit from February 2024 is:

Desert Sky 4

This adorable 12x16 unit boasts a single slope roof, specialty garage door, unique entry door with deadbolt, 3 double-pane transom windows, Tamarack Sheds’ signature long corbels, insulated floor, ceiling, and walls, horizontal lap siding, and a beautiful matching ramp into the space.

Okay, so it’s obviously fantastic. But what can we do with it?

Maybe more appropriately we can ask, what can’t you do with it?

Let’s talk about 7 potential uses for this modern space.

1 . An Art Studio

With so much natural light and a unique garage door that can be easily opened, this space is perfect for the artist in your life. Windows can be placed strategically to let in the best light for your space.

Many studies have shown the relationship between physical environment and creativity. For instance, this study concludes: “It was concluded that appropriate environmental settings can support individual incubation and exploration and inspire communities to perform creatively at optimal levels.”

For creatives, having a dedicated space where they can disappear to in order to bring new art to life is huge! Desert Sky 4 is perfect for this!

2. Bike/Toy Storage

Part of living in an area as fantastic as Central Oregon is having so many outdoor hobbies. To keep your investments safe, consider a space like our Desert Sky 4. With lockable doors and garage door, your bikes and other outdoor toys are perfectly safe. The ramp makes for easy exit when you’re ready to go out and entrance when you return. Flooring, interior walls, and lighting can be handle din the design process and make the space feel totally tailored to your hobby, your style, and you.

3. Home School Classroom

The High Desert Education Service District has seen a 500% increase in homeschooling since 2019. Sources have shown that students need a dedicated “school space” when homeschooling to increase productivity and focus. Using our Desert Sky 4, students can have a well lit, well ventilated space for learning. If the garage door was unnecessary, an easy switch would be a set of gorgeous french doors. Creating a calm and serene environment for learning helps both students and parents navigate the world of home schooling.

4. Fancy Chicken House

We’re always on the hunt for unique and fun ways to use our units. When we saw the interior inspo of this fancy chicken coop from HomeBunch, we immediately thought how fun this build would be! With the garage door and ramp in the Desert Sky 4, your chickens could free range in the day and come inside to their luxurious space in the evening - safe and sound!

So what do you think?

how would you use desert sky 4?

Let us know in the comments!

Heat Up, Cool Down: Discover Balance with Our Sauna-Cold Plunge Duo

Heat Up, Cool Down: Discover Balance with Our Sauna-Cold Plunge Duo

If you’ve spent time in the Bend area, you’ve likely noticed a unique trend has taken root amidst the stunning natural landscape: cold plunges in the river. Another age-old practice finds its place in the hearts and homes of locals: the sauna. Originating in Finland over 2,000 ago, saunas have stood the test of time as a cornerstone of wellness and relaxation. Our Sun Sheds offer a space where a person can reap the benefits of a sauna (the back portion in this photo), and then come to the sunny side where they can keep an ice bath. Add in a big comfy chair and sit down to soak up some Vitamin D and you’ve got yourself a wellness retreat - right in your very own back yard.