4 minute read
LIVING LARGE IN SMALL SPACES: how Aussie Tiny Houses redefines freedom
BY SHARI HALL
Aussie Tiny Houses, co-owned by Thiago Perrone and Fabio Paullucci and managed alongside their long-time friend Alexandre Monteiro, offers more than just homes on wheels. It provides freedom—freedom to downsize, simplify and live affordably. For Thiago and Alexandre, this business isn’t just about building homes; it’s about offering people an entirely new lifestyle. It’s a journey that began when two Brazilian immigrants met in a Sydney warehouse. It has since evolved into a business that helps Australians find beauty, comfort and sustainability in tiny living.
TINY LIVING SOLUTIONS THAT CREATE FREEDOM
When Thiago and Fabio first met while working at the Havaianas warehouse in Sydney, they were far from imagining their future partnership. Thiago, a qualified economist, had left his career in Brazil for a fresh start in Australia, while Fabio came to learn English. Over time, the two became close friends, sharing dreams of building something of their own.
Years later, after both explored different careers, Fabio introduced Thiago to the growing tiny house movement, which was already flourishing in the United States. “We were inspired by what was happening abroad,” Thiago explains. “Housing prices were skyrocketing, and tiny homes were providing people a chance to own something beautiful and affordable without the burden of traditional real estate.”
Aussie Tiny Houses grew from that initial spark, offering uniquely designed, transportable homes that can be placed on properties without council approval. While no formal approval is required, specific regulations vary by local council, and homeowners should check with their local authorities regarding the placement of tiny homes on their property.
WHO BUYS TINY HOUSES?
The appeal of tiny living is wide-ranging, attracting diverse customers across Australia. From young people entering the real estate market to retirees downsizing, Aussie Tiny Houses has built homes for every lifestyle. Alexandre notes, “We have everyone from first-time home buyers who can’t afford traditional housing to retirees looking to downsize and live more simply. There are also investors interested in Airbnb or short-term rentals and caravan park owners wanting to offer something different.”
CUSTOMISED LIVING, BEAUTIFUL SPACES
One of the key attractions of Aussie Tiny Houses is the broad range of designs to meet the specific needs of each buyer. From compact one-bedroom cabins to larger models with three sleeping spaces, the homes are locally manufactured and designed to be functional and aesthetically pleasing. “Our homes may be tiny, but they don’t feel small,” Alexandre proudly shares. “We work hard to optimise every inch of space, and the final product often surprises people.”
Despite their small size, Aussie Tiny Houses are fully equipped with modern amenities, including kitchens, bathrooms and living spaces that feel just like a full-sized home. The homes can be outfitted with off-grid capabilities, such as solar panels, composting toilets and greywater systems, offering complete independence from traditional utilities.
“These homes aren’t just affordable; they’re beautiful,” says Thiago. “We use high-quality materials like BlueScope’s TRUECORE® steel frame, sleek cabinetry and large windows to bring natural light into the space. People are always amazed at how luxurious and spacious tiny homes can feel.”
A BUSINESS ROOTED IN FAMILY VALUES
The sense of family at Aussie Tiny Houses is evident in how Thiago and Alexandre run their business. Both Brazilian by birth, they’ve built a working environment that reflects their cultural values—commitment, excellence, transparency, trust and family. “We treat our team like family,” Thiago explains. “We make decisions together, we support each other, and that’s reflected in our work.”
This tight-knit culture extends to their customers. “We want people to feel like they’re part of something special when they buy from us,” Alexandre adds. “It’s not just a house; it’s a lifestyle change, a way to live more freely and sustainably.”
THE FUTURE OF AUSSIE TINY HOUSES
As the tiny house movement continues to gain momentum, Thiago and Alexandre have big plans. “We’re always listening to our customers and looking for new ways to meet their needs,” says Thiago. The company is exploring new designs, including options for permanent structures that maintain the ethos of tiny living but meet the criteria for traditional homeownership.
“People want more control over their living situations,” Thiago adds. “They want affordability, sustainability and freedom. That’s what we provide—tiny living solutions—and we’re excited to keep pushing the boundaries of what tiny living can offer.”
