Seeking an escape from their busy city lives, four couples decided to create a unique community of tiny vacation homes to fulfill their retirement dreams together.
This eco-friendly retreat, tailored to individual needs, allows the couples to enjoy a shared experience surrounded by their closest friends. After more than two decades of friendship, these Texas couples were eager to find a quiet place away from their busy Austin homes, a place where they could immerse themselves in nature and rejuvenate.
When they discovered a piece of land near the Llano River, just an hour from Austin and perfect for nature lovers, they recognized its potential despite its rugged condition.
Fred Zipp, a former editor of the Austin American-Statesman, shared his first impressions with Garden and Gun magazine: “At first, it wasn’t very inviting”. He and his wife, Jodi, are among four couples who care about environmental sustainability and minimizing their carbon footprint. “This place has its charm, even when it’s dry”, Fred noted, pointing out the herds of wild buffalo that roam the rugged landscape. “We’re focused on conserving water for the native trees and grasses, which are really beautiful.”
The couple originally planned to build a house together, but after learning about the tiny house movement, they changed their focus and decided on individual houses and a communal building for gatherings.
With the help of San Antonio architect Matt Garcia, the vision took shape. With a budget of $40,000 per house, Garcia designed four compact 350-square-foot cabins, each equipped with a double bed, kitchenette and bathroom.
“We wanted a place where we could spend quality time together, eat together and enjoy each other’s company, while still maintaining privacy when needed”, Jodi explained.
The designs also included sustainable elements such as roofs that capture rainwater while meeting conservation guidelines. To combat the hot Texas climate, the cabins are insulated with spray foam and feature large overhangs to minimize heat gain.
Garcia focused on creating an inviting interior, contrasting the sleek metal facades with warm, grained plywood surfaces. The natural gray concrete floors add an affordable, stylish touch.
Large windows throughout the open floor plan allow for plenty of natural light and offer stunning river views. Additionally, a 1,500-square-foot community cabin serves as a hub for social activities and features a guest bedroom, living area, kitchen, and even a pool!
Reflecting on the cultural shift after the recession, Garcia said: “People began to realize that happiness does not come from owning too much space or things. I am proud to work with clients who embrace the idea that less is more”.
Although the eight friends are not yet ready for full-time retirement, their small community, called “Llano Exit Strategy” or “Bestie Row”, offers the perfect retreat. When they are not using the cabins, they rent them out to vacationers interested in the tiny house lifestyle.
“It’s like living in a Disney movie here! We have rabbits, bobcats, deer and a variety of birds. We discover more wildlife every time we visit”, they shared.
The story of “Bestie Row” sparked a lively debate on social media, with many expressing admiration for the couple’s commitment to friendship. One comment read: “What a brilliant idea! Friends building a community together is the way to go as we get older”. However, others raised concerns about the potential risks of living together in such a close relationship, suggesting that friendships could suffer.
Would you consider creating a micro-community to spend more time with your closest friends? Share this story and let us hear your thoughts!
Why people cover mirrors at night
Observing Night Rituals: Closing Mirrors Change of pace: When the topic of covering mirrors at night came up one evening, I was genuinely interested despite my first skepticism.Transition of Superstitious and Cultural Roots: In many civilizations, mirrors are more than just reflective surfaces.Mirrors are associated with more than simply beauty in many cultures; they are thought to reflect souls, which is why covering one’s eyes as you sleep is thought to shield the soul.
This custom, which is particularly prevalent during grief, shows respect for the departed while keeping the grieving process’ internal dynamics front and center.Transitioning from Feng Shui to Energy Balancing: This ceremony is influenced not just by cultural beliefs but also by the concepts of Feng Shui.Mirrors are said to have substantial energy-doubling properties in Feng Shui teachings.Sleeping soundly at night is facilitated by keeping the bedroom peaceful and harmonious, which is achieved through covering them.
Realistic Aspects Transition: The practice is motivated by practical factors as well as spiritual and energy-related ones.Improving the quality of sleep and creating a more tranquil sleeping environment throughout the night can be achieved by minimizing light reflections and getting rid of unexpected reflections.Typical Procedure?Transition: Contrary to popular belief, concealing mirrors at night is more prevalent than not.
This technique is a popular nightly routine for many people because it speaks to the basic human desire for safety and calm sleep, regardless of cultural borders.Individual Story and Request to Try Transition: My study led me to make the decision to add this exercise to my evening routine.Although it seemed strange at first, covering mirrors became to be a soothing routine that gave one a feeling of protection and tranquility at night.Trying this routine may help you in unexpected ways as well, whether you do it for spiritual reasons or to enhance the quality of your sleep.
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