Embarking on a journey into the world of yurt living often brings about a unique set of considerations, not least of which is the question of bathroom options. Yurts, with their circular design and central smoke hole, offer a charming and eco-friendly alternative to traditional housing, but they also present some challenges when it comes to incorporating modern amenities like bathrooms. Let's delve into the various yurt bathroom options available, ensuring your comfort and convenience in your new, circular home.
Before we explore the different bathroom options, it's essential to understand the unique layout and building materials of yurts. Typically, yurts are constructed using a lattice wall, a compressible wooden ring (the crown), and a fabric cover. This design allows for excellent insulation and ventilation, making yurts suitable for various climates. However, it also means that plumbing and electrical work can be more complex than in traditional rectangular homes.
In-Yurt Bathroom Options
For those who prefer the convenience of having a bathroom within their yurt, there are several creative solutions to consider.
While traditional bathtubs and shower stalls might not be feasible due to space constraints and plumbing challenges, compact and innovative alternatives can be employed. Composting toilets, for instance, are an eco-friendly option that requires no water or plumbing. They can be installed on a platform or in a small enclosure within the yurt, freeing up valuable floor space.
Composting Toilets
Composting toilets work by separating liquid and solid waste, allowing the solids to break down into nutrient-rich compost over time. They are not only waterless but also produce little to no odor, making them an attractive option for yurt dwellers. Moreover, they help reduce the environmental impact of your yurt by minimizing water usage and waste production.
Some popular composting toilet models include the Sun-Mar Excel and the Nature's Head Self-Composing Toilet. Both are compact, efficient, and designed to fit well within the circular space of a yurt. To maintain a pleasant living environment, it's crucial to empty and maintain the toilet regularly, following the manufacturer's guidelines.
Shower Pods and Wet Rooms
For those who desire a shower facility within their yurt, shower pods or wet rooms can be an excellent solution. These are essentially self-contained shower units that can be installed on a platform or in a small enclosure. They typically come with their own waterproofing and drainage systems, simplifying the plumbing process.
Shower pods like the AquaPod or the Livin' Lite Shower Pod are designed to be compact and easy to install, making them ideal for yurts. Wet rooms, on the other hand, are essentially waterproofed areas within the yurt where a shower can be installed. They require more customization but offer greater flexibility in design and layout.
External Bathroom Options
For those who prefer a more traditional bathroom experience or have space constraints within their yurt, external bathroom options can be an excellent alternative.
Building an external bathroom structure, often referred to as an "out-house" or "outhouse," can provide a more conventional bathroom experience while keeping the interior of the yurt clutter-free. These structures can be built using similar materials and design principles as the yurt itself, creating a cohesive and visually appealing living space.
Out-Houses and Shepherd's Huts
Out-houses are simple, standalone structures that can house a toilet, shower, and sometimes even a small sink. They can be built using a variety of materials, from wood to recycled materials, and can be designed to match the aesthetic of the yurt. Shepherd's huts are a similar concept, originating from the portable shelters used by shepherds in the UK. They are typically more robust and often include a multi-fuel stove for heating and cooking.
Both out-houses and shepherd's huts can be customized to include composting toilets, showers, and even small bathtubs. They can be placed a short distance from the yurt, connected by a covered walkway for added convenience and privacy. Some yurt manufacturers, such as Pacific Yurts and Colorado Yurt Company, even offer out-house kits to complement their yurt designs.
Yurt Annexes and Porches
Another external bathroom option is to attach a bathroom annex or porch directly to the yurt. This can be achieved by extending the lattice wall of the yurt and covering it with a waterproof material. The annex can then be fitted with a toilet, shower, and any other desired amenities.
Yurt annexes offer the advantage of being directly connected to the yurt, providing easy access to the bathroom facilities. They can also be designed to match the aesthetic of the yurt, creating a seamless living space. However, they may require additional insulation and weatherproofing to ensure comfort and protection from the elements.
In the world of yurt living, the bathroom options are as varied and creative as the yurts themselves. Whether you opt for an in-yurt composting toilet, a shower pod, an external out-house, or a yurt annex, there's a bathroom solution that can suit your needs and enhance your yurt living experience. So, go ahead, embrace the circular lifestyle, and let your bathroom be as unique and charming as your yurt.