Jul 20-2019

The small house movement, an American concept that’s gaining momentum in Switzerland, offers housing that is more affordable and ecologically friendly. But in the highly regulated alpine country, getting a long-term parking permit for tiny homes can be a problem. These structures are generally less than 1,000 square feet (93 m2), and represent a different way of living, allegedly offering more "freedom" than a regular house. Swiss Public Television, SRF, took a look inside Conny and Sandro Huber's tiny house in Affeltrangen in canton Thurgau. It cost around CHF70,000 ($70,482) and measures 27 m2. The "bedroom" is simply a bit of roof space over the kitchen, so there is no standing room. This is not a problem for Conny Huber: "You sleep lying down, right? You just have to get used to it." Sandro says it's better than a caravan or camper van because you can choose the fixtures and fittings.