I have an obsession with DIY activities. I like to do as much as I can on my own. It often seems that to get things done correctly, I have to do them myself. This is either a curse or a great attribute. Or both. I think it can go both ways. There are some things I have a knack for and some things I just don't. When it comes to my music career, I have invested a large amount of time researching and building my own recording studio. And this has been a major chore. But the outcome has been a major victory for me. And I have learned so much. But there are other DIY things I would like to accomplish as well. Some of these things would require way more learning than the studio did. And completing them on my own may not even be a possibility. The number one project on my list: alternative housing structure. I've always been intrigued by homes that are unique. Typical suburban neighborhoods just do not appeal to me. I also cannot rationalize the thought of residing in an overpriced apartment. So here are some ideas for alternative housing that may require much work, but will also be very unique upon completion.

1. Travel Trailer - I think this is obvious. It would be small and tight. But for one person, it could work. And unlike an apartment, it's not connected to neighbors. My favorite: the Airstream!

2. Tiny Home - In the last couple years, the minimalist approach to living has taken culture by storm. There are now companies that manufacture these tiny homes that are very portable and economically friendly. Well, they're supposed to be anyway. But I have seen some outrageous prices for these miniature abodes. I would rather get a hold of some good plans and construct one myself. This is where I think my abilities would limit me, though.

3. Shipping Container - Becoming increasingly more popular, these steel units can be acquired relatively cheap. My favorite thing about them is the availability of conversion kits that can be purchased to make the transformation into a home. These kits come with everything from insulated walls, to air conditioning, to electrical hook-ups. This would probably be the kind of project for me.

4. Shipping Pallets - Here is an idea for cheap material. Not only are shipping pallets almost always readily available, they are also usually free. Now, constructing an entire home out of these things would be impossible for me, but people have made it happen. I do, however, have a project I plan on undertaking shortly: a playhouse. And although I am claiming the playhouse is for a child, it is really just as much for me. Shhhhh.

5. Two-Story Shed - A prefabricated structure that is insulated and includes electrical hook-ups? This would already be a good start for an experienced carpenter. There are many companies that manufacture these and sell them at reasonable prices. Some even have an exterior that already looks like a house.

So there are a few ideas for alternative housing structures. I know which one is for me.