Seeking an escape from their busy city lives, four couples decided to create a unique community of tiny vacation homes to fulfill their retirement dreams together.
This eco-friendly retreat, tailored to individual needs, allows the couples to enjoy a shared experience surrounded by their closest friends. After more than two decades of friendship, these Texas couples were eager to find a quiet place away from their busy Austin homes, a place where they could immerse themselves in nature and rejuvenate.
When they discovered a piece of land near the Llano River, just an hour from Austin and perfect for nature lovers, they recognized its potential despite its rugged condition.
Fred Zipp, a former editor of the Austin American-Statesman, shared his first impressions with Garden and Gun magazine: “At first, it wasn’t very inviting”. He and his wife, Jodi, are among four couples who care about environmental sustainability and minimizing their carbon footprint. “This place has its charm, even when it’s dry”, Fred noted, pointing out the herds of wild buffalo that roam the rugged landscape. “We’re focused on conserving water for the native trees and grasses, which are really beautiful.”
The couple originally planned to build a house together, but after learning about the tiny house movement, they changed their focus and decided on individual houses and a communal building for gatherings.
With the help of San Antonio architect Matt Garcia, the vision took shape. With a budget of $40,000 per house, Garcia designed four compact 350-square-foot cabins, each equipped with a double bed, kitchenette and bathroom.
“We wanted a place where we could spend quality time together, eat together and enjoy each other’s company, while still maintaining privacy when needed”, Jodi explained.
The designs also included sustainable elements such as roofs that capture rainwater while meeting conservation guidelines. To combat the hot Texas climate, the cabins are insulated with spray foam and feature large overhangs to minimize heat gain.
Garcia focused on creating an inviting interior, contrasting the sleek metal facades with warm, grained plywood surfaces. The natural gray concrete floors add an affordable, stylish touch.
Large windows throughout the open floor plan allow for plenty of natural light and offer stunning river views. Additionally, a 1,500-square-foot community cabin serves as a hub for social activities and features a guest bedroom, living area, kitchen, and even a pool!
Reflecting on the cultural shift after the recession, Garcia said: “People began to realize that happiness does not come from owning too much space or things. I am proud to work with clients who embrace the idea that less is more”.
Although the eight friends are not yet ready for full-time retirement, their small community, called “Llano Exit Strategy” or “Bestie Row”, offers the perfect retreat. When they are not using the cabins, they rent them out to vacationers interested in the tiny house lifestyle.
“It’s like living in a Disney movie here! We have rabbits, bobcats, deer and a variety of birds. We discover more wildlife every time we visit”, they shared.
The story of “Bestie Row” sparked a lively debate on social media, with many expressing admiration for the couple’s commitment to friendship. One comment read: “What a brilliant idea! Friends building a community together is the way to go as we get older”. However, others raised concerns about the potential risks of living together in such a close relationship, suggesting that friendships could suffer.
Would you consider creating a micro-community to spend more time with your closest friends? Share this story and let us hear your thoughts!
Age Doesn’t Matter When It Comes To Love: 31-Year-Old Guy And 91-Year-Old Lady Share The Story Of Their Family Happiness!
In a society where love is frequently stifled by social conventions, meet Kyle Jones and Marjorie McCool—a couple who have deftly avoided the rules. Kyle, 31, and Marjorie, 91, have a striking 60-year age difference, which puts them in a unique position to defy the notion that love is determined by age.
Their exceptional friendship has caught the attention of the globe, and the media has not wasted any time in capturing the spirit of this special romance. The couple just had an honest conversation in which Marjorie talked candidly about the personal aspects of their relationship. Kyle was just as honest when he said that his love for Marjorie has nothing to do with money gain.
Their endearing tale started in 2009 under the luminously mundane lights of a neighborhood bookshop. Just looking through books, Marjorie—whose romantic history includes a 37-year split from her husband—was introduced to Kyle. She removed any uncertainty about Kyle’s intentions by being open about the fact that she had neither inherited money nor saved a sizable sum of money. Take note, critics: love, not money, is the driving force behind this love tale.
But my, how the plot deepens! In addition, Kyle has romantic ties to a number of older ladies. It would seem that jealousy would poison this delicate stream, but Marjorie is a serene beacon. Even though she experienced some initial jealousy, she is still Kyle’s top priority. She remains his first love because he always returns to her.
The chemistry between Marjorie and Kyle appears to defy biology and reason. When Marjorie talks about how physically they match, she beams. She makes a conscious effort to make sure she never loses her sensual attraction to Kyle, demonstrating that having romantic appeal at any age is just a number. She asks us to consider the dynamic, even ethereal aspect that allows their connection to glide between social waves through her candid admissions.
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