Finding Your Space: How to Get Privacy in a Tiny House

With reduced living costs and better sustainability, there’s no doubt that tiny house living comes with many benefits. But if you live with someone else, there’s one particular sacrifice you may have to make: privacy. With everyone living in such close quarters, it can seem impossible to find privacy in a tiny house, but that doesn’t change the fact that we all need it from time to time. So what can you do to make sure you’re getting the space you need? Depending on your living situation, you do have a few options.

Make Use of Separate Living Areas

If your tiny home has a bedroom on the ground floor, this method of privacy will be quite straightforward. All you need to do is ensure the bedroom has a door, and you’re set. But even if your tiny home has an open-plan design, you can still make use of different spaces. One person can relax in the lounge room while the other spends time in the loft bedroom. You’ll need to be considerate of the other person’s presence, but you’ll still be able to do separate activities and give each other the space you need.

Create an Outdoor Sanctuary

While your interior living space may be compact, that doesn’t mean your outdoor area needs to be. Many of our tiny home customers choose to add a deck to their home, providing extra outdoor space. This is also a great way to get some privacy. Step outside to enjoy the sunshine and a moment of quiet (weather permitting, of course). If a deck isn’t possible, comfy chairs or a hammock set up nearby can serve as your private retreat.

Embrace Different Hobbies

Having hobbies that differ from those of your housemates can be a real advantage in tiny living. A hobby, especially one that takes you out of the house, gives you a reason to spend time apart doing something you enjoy. Regular classes or a schedule you follow can ensure you’re not stuck in close quarters for too long.

Use Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Privacy isn’t always about being completely separate from others. It can be as simple as doing separate activities while sitting next to each other. In these situations, noise-cancelling headphones can be a lifesaver. They help you block out distractions and signal that you prefer not to be disturbed unless necessary. Standard headphones work too, but noise-cancelling ones offer better sound isolation, which can be particularly useful if you have loud children.

Install Curtains for Visual Privacy

In an open-plan tiny house, sound travels easily, but sometimes you just need to be out of sight. Installing a curtain to block off the loft area might not help much with sound, but it’s a simple way to create some extra visual privacy when needed. Pairing this with noise-cancelling headphones might make you feel like you’re in your own little world.

Enjoy Solo Time When Possible

Just because your partner is heading out to see friends or catch a movie doesn’t mean you need to tag along. Use that time to enjoy a quiet night in, indulging in activities they don’t enjoy, whether it’s eating a meal they dislike or watching a TV show they refuse to watch. This way, you get to satisfy your own cravings while giving them a chance for their own time out.

Get Active to Clear Your Mind

Living in a tight space with someone else can understandably build up some frustration. While you may need a few hours apart, sometimes just 30 minutes can help. Take a walk, get some fresh air, or do a quick workout to clear your head. This will benefit your mental and physical health, and your partner will likely appreciate not having to deal with your frustrations.

Prioritise Open Communication

Good communication with your housemates makes a world of difference. If you’re wearing headphones but still being interrupted, or if you just need a bit of quiet time, let them know. Being open about your needs helps everyone understand each other better. And, of course, return the same level of understanding in return.

Plan Privacy Time in Advance

The best way to ensure you’re getting the privacy you need is to plan for it. Organise some designated personal time each week or month. During this time, everyone can choose to do their own thing or engage in a hobby. Planning ahead helps prevent conflicts that might arise from spending too much time together.

Privacy in a tiny house can be challenging but it’s definitely achievable. Implementing these strategies early on can help prevent potential issues down the line. Ensuring that everyone has access to some form of privacy will make your tiny living experience much more enjoyable for everyone involved.