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!
Revive Your Leather Goods with an Egg and Toothpaste Hack!
Are your leather shoes, jackets, or furniture looking a bit dull and lifeless? Don’t worry, there’s a simple solution that involves two surprisingly common household items: eggs and toothpaste! This fascinating life hack can work wonders on rejuvenating your leather goods.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 egg white
- A small amount of toothpaste (preferably non-gel and non-whitening)
Instructions:
- Clean the Leather: Start by ensuring the leather surface is clean and dry. Use a soft cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, lightly beat the egg white. Add a pea-sized amount of toothpaste to the egg white and mix well until combined.
- Apply the Mixture: Using a soft cloth, apply the mixture to the leather in a circular motion. Work in small sections to ensure even coverage.
- Buff and Shine: Allow the mixture to sit on the leather for about 5 minutes, then buff the leather with another clean, dry cloth. You’ll be amazed at how it rejuvenates the leather, leaving it with a subtle shine.
Why It Works:
- Egg White: The egg white tightens and forms a thin film on the leather, helping to smooth out its surface and tighten the pores.
- Toothpaste: Toothpaste acts as a mild cleanser and has slight abrasive properties, which can effectively remove superficial stains and restore the leather’s natural shine.
Additional Tips:
- Test First: It’s always a good idea to test this method on a small, inconspicuous area of the leather before applying it to the entire surface to make sure there are no adverse reactions.
- Use Sparingly: Since toothpaste can be abrasive, use only a small amount and apply gentle pressure to avoid damaging the leather.
Caution:
While this egg and toothpaste hack can work wonders, it’s important to remember that using products specifically designed for leather care is always the best option for maintaining the longevity of your leather items. Consider this hack as a quick fix or last resort rather than a regular maintenance method.
So give this egg and toothpaste hack a try and bring your old leather goods back to life!
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