The cost of land and construction continues to rise, and cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu are becoming increasingly crowded. Even in rural areas, small homes like Tiny living are becoming a real trend in Kenya, because More people are looking for cheaper options, which makes a lot of sense. They are affordable, easy to maintain, and environmentally friendly. But tiny living is not just about building a small house, it’s about changing how we think and live. It’s about living with less and finding more joy. One of the best ways to learn about this lifestyle is through reading the best books on tiny living, which offer ideas, inspiration, and practical advice.
Here are some of the best books on tiny living that can help Kenyans embrace this new way of life.
1. The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up
This is not a book about building tiny houses, it’s about learning to live with less. Marie Kondo teaches the Japanese art of decluttering. Her method is called the KonMari method. The idea is simple: Keep only what “sparks joy” and let go of everything else.
Why it matters for Kenya: Many Kenyan homes are filled with unnecessary items like wedding gifts, old clothes, and broken electronics. This book helps create the right mindset before moving into a small home. But before you build, learn to live small. Tiny living needs very high discipline.
2. The best book on tiny living: Tiny House Living
Ryan Mitchell is a leading voice in the tiny house world. Her book covers everything important, like:
1. A guide on how to Build One from the best books on tiny living
In Tiny House Living, Ryan Mitchell emphasizes that building a tiny home begins with a plan. You need to design around your actual lifestyle—your daily routines, storage needs, and how you use space. Start by drafting a floor plan that reflects these priorities. Mitchell recommends considering whether the home will be mobile or stationary, as this influences the foundation and materials used. Using lightweight, sustainable, and durable materials helps keep the structure efficient and cost-effective. He also stresses the importance of understanding local zoning laws and building codes before construction begins. Even though tiny homes are small, they require the same level of structural integrity and thoughtful design as larger houses.
2. How to Live Comfortably in It
Living comfortably in a small space, according to Mitchell, is less about the size and more about how you use it. He advocates for a minimalist lifestyle where everything you own has a clear purpose and place. Incorporating built-in furniture, hidden storage, and convertible pieces (like fold-out tables or sofa beds) helps maximize utility. Vertical space becomes essential—lofts, shelving, and tall cabinets can provide storage without taking up floor space. Comfort also comes from keeping the home clutter-free and filled only with things that bring value or joy. Mitchell believes that when you design a home around how you live, not just how others think you should, you can achieve both comfort and contentment, even in under 400 square feet.
3. How to Design a Small Space from the best books on tiny living
In Tiny House Living, Ryan Mitchell emphasizes that good design is what truly makes a small space livable. Designing a small space requires intentional choices that prioritize function, flow, and flexibility. Start by identifying your daily habits—how you sleep, cook, work, and relax—and design around them. Each inch counts, so it’s essential to think vertically and use multifunctional furniture. Open floor plans, built-in storage, and large windows help create a sense of openness and light. Mitchell also highlights the importance of defining zones within the space, such as separating a sleeping area from a workspace, even if only through color, furniture arrangement, or partitions. The goal is to make the space work hard for you, not the other way around.
3. The best book on tiny living: The Big Tiny
This is one of the best books for tiny living, offering a heartfelt and often humorous look at what it means to simplify life. After facing a life-threatening health condition, Williams reevaluates her values and decides to build and live in an 84-square-foot tiny house, trading a conventional lifestyle for one rooted in purpose and freedom. She shares the hands-on experience of constructing her tiny home, the emotional challenges of letting go of possessions, and the deep satisfaction that comes from living with less. More than just a how-to, this memoir is a powerful reflection on resilience, community, and what truly makes a home.
Why it matters for Kenya: Tiny living is not just a physical change; it’s deeply emotional. Many Kenyans are tied to large family homes and traditions, but downsizing can feel strange or even painful. This book shows that it’s okay to let go and start fresh. Also, tiny living is a lifestyle of freedom, not just smaller rooms.
4. The best books on tiny living: Minimalism
Live a Meaningful Life by Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus.
This is a book about choosing a simpler, more focused way to live. The authors share their personal stories of letting go of excess stuff, stress, and distractions. They explain how minimalism helped them find more purpose, freedom, and happiness. The book offers tips on how to focus on what truly matters—like health, relationships, and personal growth. It encourages readers to live with less so they can live more.
Why it matters for Kenya: The culture is growing fast. From malls, new cars, new gadgets, but true happiness doesn’t come from owning more. This book fits perfectly with the idea of tiny living. This is because tiny homes need minimalist minds.
5. The best books on tiny living: Tiny House Basics
This is a practical, easy-to-read book in which the Engbergs share their experience building and living in a tiny house. They give smart tips about:
1. Budgeting as the big step: a guide from the best books on tiny living
In Tiny House Basics, the authors explain that budgeting is the first big step. You need to know how much money you can spend. They suggest planning for all costs, not just the house build. This includes land, tools, permits, and moving the house. Buying used materials and doing some work yourself can save money. The goal is to stay on budget and still build a home you love.
2. Finding Land
The book shows that finding land is not always easy. Tiny homes are not legal everywhere. The authors say is that it’s important to check local laws before buying or parking. You can look for land in rural areas, RV parks, or even someone’s backyard. Always think about safety, water, power, and road access. Good land makes tiny living easier and more enjoyable.
3. Building Smart Layouts
A smart layout makes a tiny house feel big. The authors explain how you should plan the space around where you live. Use furniture that serves multiple purposes. Keep walkways clear. Use shelves and lofts to save space. Let in lots of light. The layout should fit your daily life, not just look good. Every corner should have a purpose.
4. Handling Water and Electricity Needs
Tiny homes need good water and power plans. The book touches on both off-grid and on-grid choices. You can use solar panels, rainwater tanks, and composting toilets. Or you can connect to city water and power if the land allows it. Choose what works best for your lifestyle. With the right setup, your tiny house will be comfortable and easy to live in.
Why it matters for Kenya: Many Kenyans worry about land issues, water supply, and electricity. This book demonstrates that these problems can be solved through creativity and effective planning. Tiny living is achievable with the right plan. Kenyan and African Resources: There are few Kenyan books about tiny living right now, but a few resources are very
6. The best books on tiny living: The Small House Book
The Small House Book by Jay Shafer is often regarded as the best book on tiny living, as it shares simple and smart ideas for building and living in small homes. The author explains how smaller spaces can lead to a happier and more meaningful life. He also includes tips, floor plans, and personal stories that inspire people to downsize. This book helps readers understand that living with less can bring more freedom, both financially and emotionally. It is a great starting point for anyone curious about tiny homes.
People are already making use of the knowledge they got from the best books on tiny living.
Real-Life Example: In Kajiado County, some families are already in tiny homes. They are enjoying tiny living because of the following:
- They use prefab steel structures and simple wooden cabins.
- These homes are small but beautiful.
- Some even run fully on solar power.
- Water harvesting systems are common, too.
Why are they doing it?
- Lower building costs
- Easy maintenance
- Freedom to expand later if needed
This real-life example proves tiny living is not just a dream. It’s already happening here in Kenya.
Final Thoughts about the best books on tiny living
Start Your Tiny Living Journey with a Book, Tiny living is more than a trend. It’s a smart answer to high costs, crowded cities, and a busy world. It’s also a lifestyle focused on freedom, simplicity, and joy. If you want to begin your tiny living journey, start with a book. Choose one, read slowly, take notes, and apply what you learn. You don’t have to move into a tiny house tomorrow. With learning, dreaming, and planning today, you are one big step closer.
Tiny living is possible in Kenya. And it starts with knowledge.