Considering that Borealis Tiny Homes is based in the relatively chilly Canadian city of Prince George, it makes sense for the firm to ensure its Aspen model is able to stand up to cold weather. The compact dwelling has several features designed to keep the frost at bay, including radiant underfloor heating.
The Aspen measures 24 ft (7.3 m) long and comprises a total floorspace of 268 sq ft (25 sq m). It's based on a double-axle trailer and built using structurally insulated panels (SIPs), with a metal roof and cedar siding. Inside, the home is finished in locally-milled aspen and cedar, with engineered hardwood flooring and bamboo countertops.
Visitors enter into a snug living room with a desk area, as well as a sofa that can be stowed away and serves as a single bed. The kitchen includes full-size appliances, space for a dishwasher or washer/dryer to be fitted, and quite a bit of storage space.
Indeed, ensuring enough storage space was available was clearly a focus with this one and Borealis Tiny Homes added some handy nooks and cubbies, including a pull-out step area, a crawlspace under the kitchen floor, and a small storage loft.
The Aspen's bathroom has a shower, sink and flushing toilet (a composting toilet is an optional extra), while the sole loft bedroom is accessed by climbing some steps up onto a counter and then into bed.
Though we've no figures on its insulation performance or the like, Borealis Tiny Homes did tell us that the Aspen is designed to take a Canadian winter in its stride. Radiant underfloor heating keeps toes toasty, which is a rarity in tiny houses – though not unheard of – and a nice feature to have. It also has an efficient heat recovery ventilation system and a gel fuel fireplace installed. The home gets power from a standard RV hookup and lighting is LED throughout.
The Aspen is currently on the market for CAD$89,900 in Canada, or US$71,000 in the United States.
Source: Borealis Tiny Homes