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Off-Grid Living in Shepherd Huts

Off-Grid Living in Shepherd Huts

Originally used by shepherds in the UK to shelter from the elements, shepherd huts have had a resurgence in recent years – not only as an eco-friendly form of holiday accommodation in beautiful settings in nature, but they are become increasingly popular as a way to live completely off-grid as well.

Strictly speaking, living off-grid means living without a connection to mains electricity, water or sewage systems. While this can be a great way to reduce your environmental impact and save money on your bills in the long run, it usually has quite a start-up cost in terms of your dwelling and getting yourself all set up for your new environmentally-friendly life.

 

Let’s look at the benefits

While living off-grid can seem daunting initially, there are in fact quite a few benefits to choosing this lifestyle in a shepherd hut. Some of the most common advantages include:

  • Reduced environmental impact: Shepherd huts are small, compact and energy-efficient, and therefore have a much smaller carbon footprint than traditional homes.
  • Lower cost of living: Without the usual utility bills to pay, off-grid living can be much cheaper than living on the grid … and tends to lend itself to the ‘less is more’ aesthetic anyway.
  • Greater freedom and independence: Without having to rely on the grid for your basic needs, you can enjoy the freedom that independent living brings.
  • A simpler and more relaxed lifestyle: Off-grid living is a chance to remove yourself from the rat race, reduce the frantic pace of your life and live a slower, more peaceful lifestyle.

Off-grid living in shepherd huts is a great way to live a more independent, sustainable and affordable lifestyle.

You’re convinced … so now what?

If you’re interested in off-grid living in a shepherd hut, there are a few things you need to do to get started:

  • Find a suitable location: You need to find a site with enough space for your shepherd hut, access to water as well as sunlight if you are planning to install solar panels. You also need to check if there are any planning permission requirements with your local council if necessary.
  • Purchase a shepherd hut: Outdoorsy Living manufacture bespoke luxury shepherd huts that can be built to your exact specifications and requirements. Whether you are looking for something small and cosy or something large and spacious, we can design, build, deliver and install your new off-grid home.
  • Install off-grid systems: To avoid on-grid utility costs, you will need to install off-grid systems for your electricity, water and sewage. There are various options available, including solar panels, heat pumps, battery storage systems, rainwater harvesting systems and composting toilets. We can help you with all your queries on the best off-grid solution for your chosen spot.
  • And don’t forget to learn how to live off-grid: Don’t neglect your research on living off-grid in the long term. Luckily there are many resources available online and as you know, information is power.

 

Off-Grid Living in Shepherd Huts

 

Tips for success

They might seem obvious but they are still important. Here are a few tips for successful off-grid living in your shepherd hut:

  • Be prepared for the weather: The elements can be harsh, so you need to be prepared for hot and cold weather. Outdoorsy Living shepherd huts are fully insulated in the walls, floor and roof (including underfloor heating), keeping you cosily warm in winter and comfortably cool in summer.
  • Be mindful of your water usage: Water is a precious resource when you’re living off-grid. Use water sparingly and definitely consider rainwater harvesting … especially in the rainy UK.
  • Grow your own food: Growing your own food is a very rewarding activity, besides being a great way to save money, eat healthily and live independently.
  • Compost your food scraps: Composting is a great way to reduce your waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden and vegetable patch.
  • Be part of the community: While off-grid living can provide much needed isolation, it can also be a great way to connect with your community by getting involved in local events and activities.

 

Off-grid living in shepherd huts is a great way to live a more independent, sustainable and affordable lifestyle. If you’re interested in learning more about the idea of off-grid living in one of our shepherd huts, please get in touch for an initial discussion.

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