Yurt Information

Yurts Can Have Many Uses

They can provide a simple full-time permanent home or an inexpensive weekend getaway. Some are used as artist or yoga studios, meditation spaces, guest cottages, unique commercial spaces, churches and home school classrooms. Their unique and simple design allows for a variety of uses.

The roundness of the structures with great Feng Shui principles seems to invoke the creative spirit which makes them popular with artists. The simplicity of the structure also appeals to many. Some like the fact that they provide an eco-friendly structure with a minimal footprint on the Earth.

A Unique Structure Tested Over 2000 Years

They originated with the Mongolian Nomads over 2500 years ago. Originally called Gers they are still in use today. Today's modern version is based on the Mongolian design but includes many upgraded features and engineering to make them more comfortable and user friendly.

Many Options to Consider

There are many options from building your own yurt to buying a complete kit that contains the structural elements and exterior covers. Manufacturers build them in a variety of sizes and prices from 12 to 30 feet in Photo by Zahora photography © 2007

diameter. Purchased as a kit, they can also be equipped with many options like extra windows, stove pipe flashing, fabric upgrades and much more.

Interior partition walls can be added to separate living area from bedroom and bath areas making it feel like a home. Some choose to add smaller yurt to a larger central one to create a larger space with private areas. Larger ones typically have higher ceiling heights that allow for a second floor loft or storage space.

An Affordable Housing Option

Purchased at a cost far less than a conventional cabin or home a yurt can provide great affordable housing for those on a tight budget. They can also be erected in a couple of days. Another benefit is that they can be easily disassembled and moved to another site.

Some serve as a temporary shelter while building a permanent cabin or weekend home. Once the permanent structure is completed, they can be left up as a guest cottage, office or studio. Some have even chosen to forgo the construction of a permanent dwelling since they love yurt living so well.

Making Yurts Livable

Many are equipped with electric, heat, plumbing, insulation and other features to make them more comfortable. A well or rainwater harvesting system can be installed to supply fresh water. Some are totally off the grid and utilize solar or wind power. Composting toilets can also be added easily to avoid expensive and environmentally unfriendly septic systems. In some parts of the country a grey water system can be installed to process shower and sink water created by the bathroom or kitchen. Many ways of making these unique structures livable are discussed on this site.

One area of caution: Be sure to investigate the local building codes/restrictions for your area. You may be required to get a building permit, meet applicable codes and educate local officials.

Disclaimer Of Liability And Warranty- I specifically disclaim any warranty, either expressed or implied, concerning the information on these pages. I will not have any liability for loss, damage, or injury, resulting from the use of any information found on this, or any other page of this site.