Millennial Frenchman Embraces Simplicity and Built a DIY Tiny House for Himself and His Cat

Geoffrey Celard's Unique Lifestyle in Southeast France

Geoffrey Celard, a 29-year-old adventurer, has crafted a unique lifestyle in southeast France, residing in a DIY tiny house with his feline companion. This micro-home, taking over a year to construct at an estimated cost of $21,000, has become a testament to the beauty of simplicity and sustainability.

After a transformative backpacking trip in Colombia, where Celard experienced life in small, indigenous dwellings, he returned to France with a newfound appreciation for minimalist living. Fueled by a desire for a safe, affordable haven, he constructed his tiny house, measuring 20 feet in length, 8 feet in width, and 14 feet in height.

Building with Tiny House Enthusiasts

Drawing inspiration from online resources and shared warehouse space with fellow tiny house enthusiasts, Celard's DIY approach underscores the collaborative nature of the tiny house community. Although some tasks required professional expertise, such as electrical and plumbing systems, he relied on a supportive network of builders.

Clever Interiors and Sustainable Choices

Cost-effective and environmentally conscious, Celard's tiny house boasts cleverly designed interiors featuring foldable furniture and hidden cabinets to maximize space utilization. Despite its compact size, the home provides a sense of openness with ample windows, creating a connection to nature.

Land Rental and Legal Considerations

Located just outside Valence, Celard rents a piece of land for his tiny house, fostering a tiny house community with a friend. While his unconventional lifestyle technically falls outside legal norms, he pays a modest €150 monthly rent for water and electricity access, costing an additional €20 for utilities.

Reflecting on the challenges, Celard acknowledges the DIY struggle, especially living in his camper van during construction. However, the mental and physical hurdles culminated in the satisfaction of witnessing his dream cabin materialize. Celard's book, based on his tiny house journey, consultation services, and workshops, showcases his commitment to sharing knowledge with aspiring tiny house enthusiasts.

Finding Perfection in Imperfection

For Celard, living in a small space aligns with his personality and past experiences, making the tiny house a perfect fit. While occasional yearnings for more space arise, he appreciates the simplicity and coziness of his home, emphasizing that nothing in the world is perfect, each with its merits and drawbacks.

As an advocate for the tiny house movement, Celard advises aspiring builders not to undertake everything alone. Seeking guidance from others and building a supportive community can enhance the building process and foster lasting connections. For Celard, the tiny house project shaped his living space and brought meaningful friendships and a life enriched by simplicity.