There’s no doubt tiny houses are a growing trend: The demand for a greener lifestyle and a craving for simpler living means Americans’ fascination with “tiny living” has morphed from a fad into a full-grown movement. You can see it at trade shows and conferences – but also in popular culture. There are reality TV shows, web series, and even fictional tiny-home dwelling TV characters in the popular Netflix series “Grace and Frankie.”
“Tiny homes and tiny-home living is gaining in popularity around the U.S.,” says Nikki Cheatham, co-owner – with her husband Mike and his brother Jonathan – of Movable Roots, a tiny house construction company in Melbourne, Fla. “As more and more potential communities pop up, we see local and even national news coverage.”
Just as every Grace needs a Frankie, every tiny house needs windows. But do they have to be tiny? What are your options? Read on for everything you need to know about tiny house windows and see some stylish examples from Movable Roots.
What Is a Tiny House?
A tiny house is a small dwelling, typically ranging from 100 to 400 square feet, that emphasizes simplicity, efficient use of space, and a minimalist lifestyle. These homes can be built on a stationary foundation or can be mobile, like a recreational vehicle (RV). Mobile tiny homes offer flexibility and freedom.
Tiny houses are part of a growing movement that prioritizes environmental consciousness, financial freedom, and the desire for a more personalized living space. By maximizing every inch of space, tiny house owners craft innovative, multifunctional areas that reflect their needs and values, challenging the conventional belief that bigger is always better.
What Are the Best Windows for a Tiny House?
Everything in a tiny house needs to serve a purpose and fit together seamlessly. The best windows for a tiny house enhance the living space, provide plenty of natural light, and help maintain the ideal temperature. Whether you're living in a stationary home or one on wheels, selecting the right type of windows will impact your tiny house experience.
Nikki says it’s all about matching the design. “We design the space first,” she says, “then pick a window that best fits the space.” Here are some design styles to consider for tiny homes.
Awning Windows
Awning windows are hinged at the top and open outward from the bottom. They come in small sizes, offer excellent ventilation, and can be placed high on walls, making them especially popular as dormer windows in a tiny house. Their design is ideal for all types of weather, as they can be opened during a downpour without letting water in. Plus, their unique opening mechanism makes them great for tight spaces – and tiny homes are all about maximizing usable area.
Casement Windows
Casement windows open outward similar to awning windows, but are attached to their frame by one or more hinges at the side. They can swing outwards to the left or right, providing full top-to-bottom ventilation and good natural light. They’re perfect for those looking for tiny house panoramic windows to create a sense of openness and connection with the outdoors. Casement windows are also known for their excellent energy efficiency because they seal tightly against the frame when closed, reducing air leakage.
Energy-Efficient Windows
In the compact space of a tiny house, maintaining a comfortable temperature is key. Energy-efficient windows are crucial for minimizing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. Look for windows with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings, quality frames, and double panes with gas fills to enhance thermal performance. These windows usually come with a higher upfront cost, but the comfort level they provide make them a smart investment for any tiny home.
Movable Roots: Tiny House Windows With Big Benefits
The Cheathams founded Movable Roots in 2017 after Mike and Nikki felt an itch for tiny living. They already have a number of models available to order, and their selection continues to grow. Recently, the Cheathams unveiled their latest model, the Wansley. Designed for a family of four, the Wansley is a 36-foot-long home on wheels, featuring a gooseneck design with a master bedroom, chef’s kitchen, and a loft for the children.
The Wansley is a tiny house with large windows, especially in the relatively spacious master bedroom, which has a beautiful outdoor view. “It has a bump out with a large sitting window,” Nikki says. “The family will be able to enjoy the views of their land.” It also features many other windows from MI’s 1600 line.
Modern Black Tiny House Windows
“Black was the best option for this darker, more modern designed home,” says Nikki, adding that the Cheathams have been using MI windows since Movable Roots was founded.
Thanks to technology that allows for coloring windows as well as new materials like aluminum, darker-colored windows and doors have become all the rage. With choices like black, bronze, and hunter green, homeowners have more variety when it comes to design options.
“People love having a greater array of colors to choose from,” says Anthony Matter, MI’s director of marketing. “Especially the black – it’s a neutral color that contrasts nicely with so many others. It really brings out lighter colors like white, beige, or tan, while presenting a very modern aesthetic.”
Tiny House, Plenty of Windows
Once the color was determined, it was time to pick the tiny house windows for the Wansley. The Cheathams principally chose selections from MI’s 1600 line. Delivering a varied collection of products, MI’s 1600 Series includes everything from a sliding glass door to double-hung, single-hung, and sliding windows.
The 1630 sliding window makes two appearances in the Wansley: at the front of the house and in the master bedroom. Offering superior styling and handcrafted quality for both new construction and replacement projects, the 1630 features a slim profile and an integral pull rail. The slim profile provides a large viewing area with clean, continuous lines and an unobstructed outlook.
Then there’s the 1620 single-hung window, which has a metal-reinforced meeting rail that delivers superior strength and durability. What’s more, its sloping sill optimizes water drainage and eliminates unsightly weep holes. Finally, there’s the 9660 awning window. An ENERGY STAR-rated window in all four U.S. climate zones, the 9660 is used to bring in natural light in the Wansley shower.
Go Big With MI Tiny House Windows
Choosing the right tiny house windows – whether awning, casement, or energy-efficient models – can significantly impact your comfort, functionality, and energy consumption. Plus, they play a big part in how it looks. Consider factors like ventilation, light, privacy, and energy efficiency to ensure that your tiny house windows align with your tiny house lifestyle.
Remember, in a space where every square foot counts, the right windows can transform your tiny house into a bright, airy, and energy-efficient home. Browse our selection of windows to get inspired for your project.
