The San Juan Tiny House

High in the Colorado mountains, this completely off-grid home cleverly fuses art and functionality. Home to a young couple and their two dogs, the eye-catching dwelling showcases the impeccable craftsmanship and creative flair of its occupants. Greg and Stephanie Parham built San Juan Tiny House to include a wavy roof, an angled front prowl, barn wood siding arranged like the rays of the sun, blue ombré shakes on the rear wall, reclaimed materials throughout, and a collapsible front porch, which features a fold-up deck and fold-down awning. On the inside, clever solutions maximize square feet and storage.

The kitchen is designed to be both compact and functional.

The bottom of the bed features a Southwest-inspired pattern that the Parhams designed together. "We wanted to have something beautiful to look at while sitting on the couch if the bed was raised up," says Greg.

The living area is under the sleeping loft, which is actually an elevator bed. Note the pulley on the right side.

The Parhams added a convertible table that slides out to extend the kitchen and can be used for added prep space, dining, or as an office nook.

The living room area enjoys a porthole opening to the outdoors.

The Kimberley woodstove is designed specifically for tiny houses and very small spaces.

Exterior with porch folded in

The San Juan Mountains and the environment inspired many design elements of the aptly named San Juan Tiny House. The undulating roof line, for example, recalls a flowing river, while the blue gradient on the back wall recreates the shifting blues of the Colorado sky. "The sun-ray pattern pays homage to the Colorado sun—we have 300+ days of sunshine per year—and the portholes mimic the stars in the desert sky," says Greg.

The bathroom, which features a penny-tile floor, is relatively large—and even holds a soaking tub.

CLOSET AREA

The storage loft looks towards the elevator bed.

EXTERIOR DRIVER SIDE