How to Live in a Yurt
Introduction
In today’s busy world, more and more people are looking for ways to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. One such option is to embrace the simple, sustainable lifestyle of living in a yurt. Yurts are traditional round structures originally used by nomadic cultures in Central Asia. They have gained popularity in recent years as an alternative housing solution and off-grid living space. With their circular design and eco-friendly nature, yurts offer a unique opportunity for those seeking something different to traditional housing.
If you’ve ever wondered how to live in a yurt, we have put together a comprehensive guide that will help make your dream of yurt life a reality.
1. Choose Your Ideal Yurt Location
To begin your journey in yurt living, you must first select your desired location. Whether it is peaceful woodland, rugged mountain terrain, or a serene meadow, make sure the land is suitable for building and meets all necessary legal requirements.
2. Decide on the Purpose of Your Yurt
Do you want your yurt space to be your primary residence? A weekend retreat? Or perhaps even guest accommodation? Knowing the purpose behind your yurt will help inform many decisions during the building process and ultimately create a space that works best for you.
3. Choose the Right Size and Design
Yurts come in various sizes and designs depending on their purpose and comfort level required. Determine how much space you need for living and storage while considering any furniture or appliances you may want inside. Opting for custom designs allows extra freedom to tailor your yurt specifically to your preferences.
4. Learn About Zoning Laws and Permits
Knowledge of local zoning laws and any required permits is necessary before construction begins on your yurt project. Reach out to your local municipality or town office to ensure you are compliant with all rules and regulations in your area.
5. Set a Budget
When deciding to live in a yurt, it’s crucial to create a budget early on. Factor in the cost of land, materials, labor, legal fees, utilities, furnishings, and any additional expenses that may arise during the building process.
6. Building a Yurt Foundation
A solid foundation is essential to your yurt’s longevity and security. Depending on your location, you may choose from various options such as concrete piers, wooden decks, or raised platforms.
7. Assemble Your Yurt
There are several methods for constructing yurts: purchasing a pre-fabricated kit for DIY assembly, working with a yurt builder for custom construction, or even building entirely from scratch using traditional materials depending on your skill level and preference.
8. Insulate Your Yurt
Given that yurts typically have thin walls and lack the insulation of standard homes, consider adding insulation materials or investing in an efficient heating source to keep your living space cozy during colder months.
9. Furnish Your Space
Yurt living calls for practicality and creativity when it comes to furnishing the space. Incorporate multipurpose furniture and make use of the circular design to create functional zones for sleeping, cooking, and lounging.
10. Connect to Utilities
Depending on your chosen lifestyle and location, determine whether you will require connections to electricity, water supply and sewage facilities or if you will opt for off-grid alternatives such as solar panels or compost toilets.
Conclusion
Living in a yurt is not just about returning to nature but embracing a simpler way of life that encourages mindfulness and sustainability. By following these ten steps and tailoring them to suit your preferences, you can bring your dream of living in a yurt to fruition while experiencing the myriad benefits this