When it comes to tiny houses, the French do things their own way. Regulations require that towing weight does not exceed 3.5 metric tons (7,700 lb), so any tiny house firm needs to think carefully about what features it includes. The Escapade tiny house, by Baluchon, walks this tightrope successfully and provides pleasant towable digs for up to two people.
The Escapade sits on a 5.5 m (18 ft)-long double axle trailer and measures a total floorspace of 17.2 sq m (185 sq ft), including loft. Weight comes in at 3,380 kg (7,451 lb), including furniture, which is a lot less than most North American tiny houses, such as the Sheriff, for example, which weighs 17,000 lb (7,711 kg).
The exterior has a somewhat contemporary look, with the tiny house's cedar siding enlivened by black detailing and unusual glazing.
Entering via the covered porch, the ground floor is divided into a lounge area to the right, and a kitchen which includes refrigerator, sink, and four-burner stove (but no oven) straight ahead. Next to the kitchen is a dining area, while walking to the end of the home reveals a bathroom with shower and toilet. A storage staircase leads up to a loft sleeping area.
Considering its relatively compact size, Escapade's interior layout looks well thought out. The dining area appears decently-proportioned, as does the kitchen and bedroom, with only the lounge perhaps a little too small.
As standard, the Escapade operates from a standard RV hookup. Like Marjolein Jonker's tiny house, its insulation is sheep's wool, and LED lighting is installed throughout. The Escapade is sold as a turnkey model, including furniture, for €42,500 (roughly US$47,500).
Source: Baluchon (in French)
