Exploring the charm and appeal of living in a shepherd hut
Is it possible?
Today, there is a constant pressure to accumulate more things, achieve more success, and live a more lavish lifestyle. However, this constant need for more can be exhausting. By opting to live in a shepherd hut, people can focus on what truly matters to them, rather than material possessions. This lifestyle encourages a more minimalist mindset that can lead to a happier, more fulfilling life. While it may not be for everyone, those who choose to live in tiny homes often find that it brings them a sense of peace and contentment.
In recent years, the tiny house movement has gained a lot of traction and popularity. Many people are opting for smaller, more manageable living spaces. This trend has caught on for many reasons, including financial benefits, environmental concerns, and the desire to simplify one's life.
One of the questions we get asked a lot, and have often wondered ourselves, is can you live comfortably in a shepherd hut?
In short - yes, it is possible to live in a shepherd hut! Living in a shepherd hut can be a unique and rewarding experience for those who are looking to enjoy a simpler way of life or for those looking for affordable and comfortable accommodation alongside a house renovation or build. The small size of these structures can encourage a more minimalist lifestyle and force you to prioritise what is truly important to you. Living in a shepherd hut can be a great way to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of modern life and connect with nature. With careful planning and consideration, it is definitely possible to make a shepherd hut your home. In this blog post, we will dive deeper into the draw towards tiny, simple living and explore why it's become such a popular lifestyle choice.
Why opt for a shepherd hut?
Spending time outdoors is not just a leisurely activity, it’s essential for our overall wellbeing. From reducing stress and anxiety to boosting our mood and immune system, there are countless benefits to being in nature. In today’s society, where we spend the majority of our time indoors, it’s more important than ever to make time for the great outdoors.
A connection to nature
Living in a shepherd hut can be a unique and fulfilling experience, particularly for those individuals who enjoy spending time in nature. By choosing to live in a shepherd hut, you are essentially embracing a simpler way of life that is more closely connected to the natural world around you. When you step outside your door, you are immediately immersed in the sights, sounds, and smells of the outdoors. You can hear birds singing in the trees, feel the sun on your skin, and breathe in the fresh air. This kind of environment can have a calming and rejuvenating effect on your mind and body, allowing you to feel more in tune with the natural rhythms of the world around you. Whether you are an artist, a writer, a nature lover, or simply seeking a slower pace of life, living in a shepherd hut can be an excellent way to increase your connection to nature.
One of the most important benefits of being outdoors is its positive impact on our mental health. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety and increase feelings of happiness and well-being. Being surrounded by natural beauty, fresh air, and sunshine can help us feel more relaxed and peaceful, which in turn can improve our overall quality of life.
Nature exposure can have a soothing effect on our minds. The International Journal of Wellbeing suggests that humans have an innate drive to connect with nature due to our ancestors' reliance on the environment for survival. The stress reduction hypothesis suggests that time spent in nature triggers a physiological response that reduces stress levels. Attention restoration theory suggests that nature rejuvenates cognitive resources, improving concentration and attention.
In addition to its mental health benefits, spending time outdoors can also have a positive impact on our physical health and may reduce stress levels, lower blood pressure, and improve our immune system. The more time we spend outdoors, the more we can reap the health benefits it has to offer.
Financial benefits
One of the biggest draws towards simple living in a shepherd hut is the financial benefit. By living in a smaller space, people can save a significant amount of money on their living expenses. Smaller homes require less energy to heat and cool, which can result in lower utility bills. All of these factors combined make shepherds huts an attractive option for those looking to save money and live a more minimalist lifestyle.
Opting for a more sustainable life
Many people who choose to live in shepherds huts opt for sustainable materials and energy-efficient appliances, further reducing their environmental impact. This lifestyle not only benefits the individual but also benefits the planet as a whole.The sustainability of Arbor Shepherd Huts is a key consideration in our design and construction. By using natural and renewable materials, incorporating energy-efficient features, and utilising traditional building techniques, our huts provide a comfortable living space with a reduced impact on the environment. Discover more about the sustainability of our huts here.
Who might living in a shepherd hut appeal to?
Often, during the renovation process, homeowners often need to move out of their house for extended periods of time. A shepherd hut can be a perfect temporary living space, offering all the amenities needed to live comfortably while construction is underway.
Home renovation accommodation
Renovating a home is a stressful process that can last for months or even years. During this time, finding a comfortable and durable living arrangement can be a challenge. That's where a shepherd hut could be a good choice. Arbor Shepherd Huts have become increasingly popular in recent years as a solution for those undergoing home renovations. Not only are they durable and comfortable year-round, but they offer a unique living experience and can be used beyond any renovation project.
Interior designer Bee Osborn is no stranger to home renovation. Having bought, done up and sold her first Cotswolds cottage, she recently embarked on a second project. While work on her house was underway, she chose to live in an Arbor Shepherd Hut for over a year. Read more about Bee’s experience of living in a shepherd hut and her top tips on how to do it!
One of the most appealing aspects of living in a shepherd hut throughout a renovation project is their durability. Built with high-quality materials, these huts are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. Their sturdy construction ensures they will last for many years, making them a wise investment for those undergoing home renovations. Additionally, their mobility allows them to be transported to another location once your renovations are complete.
Perhaps one of the most unique aspects of living in a shepherd hut is the experience that it offers. These huts provide a sense of connection to nature that is often lost in modern living. They allow you to live more simply and intentionally, focusing on the essentials and enjoying the outdoors. With many options for customisation, you can create a space that is truly your own.
Shepherds huts vs static homes
Many people choose to live in a caravan or static home during a renovation however, living in a static home during a house renovation can be a challenging experience, especially during the winter months. While it may seem like a good idea to save money, as these structures can be picked up relatively cheap, the reality is that living in a static home can be uncomfortable and unpractical.
One of the biggest challenges of living in a static home is dealing with the cold weather during the winter months. Unlike a shepherd hut, static homes are not built with the same level of insulation and heating systems that can keep a space warm and comfortable. During the winter months, you may find yourself struggling to stay warm, even with the use of heaters or other heating systems - which could send your bills sky high.
Finally, one of the best things about investing in a shepherd hut to live in while renovating or building your home is that you can use it for a wide range of purposes when your building work is complete. Whether you need an extra bedroom for guests, a garden room for relaxation or an office for work, a shepherd hut can provide the perfect solution. When your main renovation project is finished, you can still enjoy the benefits of your shepherd hut for years to come. If you decide to move house in the future, you can simply take your shepherd hut with you.
Looking for a simple life
For those looking to live a simpler life, a shepherd hut can be a perfect fit. With a limited amount of space, these tiny homes encourage a minimalist lifestyle, forcing individuals to only keep the essentials. This can be a great way to declutter and live a more sustainable lifestyle. Additionally, because of their compact size, shepherd huts can be located in remote areas, offering a sense of seclusion and escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The annex alternative
Finally, shepherd huts can be a great alternative to living in an annex. Many individuals choose to live in an annex, a separate living space on the same property as the main house, to provide additional living space for family or guests. However, annexes can be expensive to build and maintain, and they often require a large amount of space. A shepherd hut offers a more affordable and space-efficient alternative, while still providing adequate living space for individuals or guests.
A step-by-step guide
Are you looking for a unique living experience that brings you closer to nature? Living in a shepherd hut might be just what you need!
A step-by-step guide on how to make your dream a reality.
Step 1: Choose Your Hut
The first step is to choose the shepherd hut that is right for you. Here you can view the range of shepherds huts we have for sale. When considering living in a shepherds hut, you will need all the necessary amenities, such as a kitchen, bathroom, and space for sleeping and storage therefore we suggest exploring either The Waltham or The Hambleden. Both huts are customisable so you can choose exactly what you need in your hut.
Why not consider opting for a double hut? With two huts, you can create a more comfortable and functional living space that's better suited to long-term living. Learn more about our double hut here.
Step 2: Confirm the Location
Next, you need to find the location you can base your shepherd hut. One of the great advantages of shepherd huts is that, unlike permanent structures, they usually don’t require planning permission for single, personal use huts. But there are occasions when you may need to apply for planning permission - if you live in a National Park. Different countries often have different rules, even in the UK. We will carry out an onsite visit to confirm access and positioning of your hut.
Step 3: Embrace Simple Living
Living in a small space requires you to embrace simplicity. Living in a shepherd hut can be a transformative experience, allowing you to reconnect with nature and simplify your life. However, one of the biggest challenges of living in a small space is figuring out what to do with all your belongings. Here we explore the practicalities of living in a shepherd hut and why having fewer possessions can lead to a more peaceful mind.
First, let's talk about the logistics of living in a small space. You'll need to be strategic about what you bring with you. Start by making a list of your essential items, such as clothing, toiletries, and any items you will need in the kitchen. Once you've slimmed down your possessions, it's important to think about how to store them in your shepherd hut. Look for creative storage solutions that make the most of every inch.
When we have too much stuff, it can be overwhelming and stressful. We spend time and energy managing our possessions, organising them and worrying about them. By simplifying our lives and letting go of things we don't need, we free up mental space and reduce stress. Having fewer possessions can help us live more intentionally. When we're not constantly surrounded by stuff, we're forced to focus on what really matters to us. We become more mindful of our daily habits and routines, and we're able to prioritise the things that bring us joy and fulfilment. Although daunting, this can be a freeing experience, allowing you to focus on the things that truly matter in life.
Step 4: Enjoy the Outdoors
One of the best parts of living in a shepherd hut is being surrounded by nature. Take advantage of your surroundings by spending time outside, hiking, camping, and exploring the area. You'll be amazed at how much beauty you can find when you take the time to look.
Living in shepherd huts can be a life-changing experience. By following these steps, you can make your dream a reality and enjoy life in a simple, peaceful, and beautiful way.
The Arbor Paired Hut
Buying a double shepherd huts is a great idea if you're looking for more space when choosing to live in the hut. With two huts you can create a good-sized living space that's both practical and aesthetically pleasing. So why not consider investing in an Arbor Paired Shepherd Hut and create your own unique living space today?
The Arbor Paired Hut
First and foremost, buying a double shepherd hut offers you a lot more living space. With two huts, you can create separate areas for sleeping, working, and relaxing, giving you more room to spread out and enjoy your space. You could use one hut as a bedroom and the other as a living room, or one as a kitchen and the other as a dining room. The possibilities are endless, and you can customise the layout to suit your needs.
Why wait?
Living in a shepherd hut may seem like a daunting challenge, but with careful planning and a commitment to simplicity, it can be a truly rewarding experience. By letting go of unnecessary possessions and focusing on what's truly important, you can cultivate a sense of peace and contentment that will stay with you.
Investing in an Arbor Shepherd Hut is a great idea if you're looking for a cost-effective and versatile way to live while renovating or building your home. With our unique blend of charm and functionality, a shepherds hut is the perfect addition to any property and it will provide you with many years of enjoyment once your building work is complete. Contact us to buy a shepherds hut today.
If you are interested in living in a shepherd hut, get in touch with our team to discuss the many options we have available to make that dream become a reality.
