The Yurt - One Couple's Alternative Housing Project

Web posted on March 16, 2013

No longer do you have to be in the steppes of Mongolia to see the portable yurt dwelling being put to use. Construction is underway on one of these wood and canvas tents by urban farmers Andrew Afelskie and Erin Richan.

The pair will use this alternative living option year-round. Though their new home isn't connected to the grid, they won't have to worry about bills for heat, electricity, or water. "I thought it was beautiful and simple," Richan said. "We both want to leave a lighter footprint."

Erin Richan and Andrew Afelskie - Photo courtesy of Dyiode

The final price of the project will be approximately $3000, including the wood stove and deck base yet to be added. Since the project began in Dec. 2011, Afelskie and Richan have managed to keep costs low by collecting the lumber and doing all the labour themselves.

Construction of the Yurt - Photo courtesy of Dyiode

It was also made possible thanks to the equipment at The Diyode Community Workspace. "Many aspects of the yurt have been built at Diyode," Afelskie said. "They prioritized our project as being important."

The organization even purchased the industrial sewing machine needed for the canvas, Richan said. "They're a really great community." Pictured on left is the industrial sewing machine.
Photo courtesy of Dyiode.

About Diyode
Diyode is a non-profit workshop in Guelph that provides tools, supplies and industrial equipment. It represents a community of people lending their hands to anyone who wants to learn something new. Reach them by e-mail at info@diyode.com.