The two questions that everyone asks me are this: Why did you choose a yurt? And what is it like to live in one? First of all, my location is in a forest with no other homes around. I wanted to create a structure that blended with my environment, it also had to be sustainable and I was determined to incorporate Sacred Geometry into my dwelling. Was there really something different about living within a space that was considered sacred? There was really only one way to know for sure.
There are a number of possible shapes in Sacred Geometry that I could have chosen, but the circle is the most basic and the one I liked the best. People have lived in circular structures for a very long time, many indigenous cultures have lived in tipis, igloos, domes and yurts; it’s been a staple of Vernacular Architecture. The yurt also incorporates many desirable aesthetic features and has the added benefit of being wind resistant because of its shape and being built on a platform with zero footprint.
So what is it like to live in a yurt? There is something special about living in a round space with a dome and a high ceiling. I love seeing the stars at night and I really love that a yurt is airy and non-toxic, being made of un-dyed marine canvas. I find it a very creative space. And since you have complete control over how many windows that you have, it can be extremely luminous inside and give the impression that there is no separation between you and the outdoors.
If you have ever gone camping in a tent, you know that you can hear everything outside: the rain, the wind, the owls, the coyotes, and the birds at sunrise. It is as close to living in nature as it gets, and since yurts can be constructed in as little as 3 days they have become very popular used for special events, camping, home offices, guest houses and vacation homes–yurts have many pros.
Is it different living in a sacred space? I would have to say, yes. It’s unlike anyplace I have ever lived before. Despite its 733 sq ft. size, it feels very open and spacious. And no one comes through my door including children, without saying, “this is really cool!”
“Your Yurt is a dream house. It has all of the color and artistic expression you were blessed with when the stars got together to create you. Lucky universe. Your move to the Mountains and away from civilization was the best and most inspired decision you ever made in your life. I applaud you for the common sense and intuition that guided you to do it. It gave you a chance to create your own world …… and that you did in a glorious way. I am probably one of the few people that can really understand that internal fire that creates and inspires someone like yourself. You’re a rare bird.”
– Harry Gesner, Sustainable Architect, Malibu