Files
Date of Award
5-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Architecture
College
Arts and Sciences
Department
Architecture
Faculty Advisor
Regin Schwaen
Studio Coordinator
Stephen Wischer
Faculty Chair
Susan Kliman
Publisher
North Dakota State University
Rights
NDSU policy 190.6.2
URI
https://www.ndsu.edu/fileadmin/policy/190.pdf
Abstract
This thesis is an exploration into minimalistic living through tiny homes. In a culture that prioritizes the ownership of material things and where “want” has become synonymous with “need”, individual identity is being lost to possessions. This thesis acts as a rebuttal to what has become the status quo and seeks a change in both mindset and lifestyle. Why does American culture insist on unnecessary consumption, and how can we mitigate it? Through detaching ourselves from marketing, perceived wealth, and the opinion of others, contentment and self-reliance can be found. The foundation of this thesis lies in the idea that minimizing our lifestyle and becoming intentional about materiality can greatly impact our lives for the better. Due to the nature of this concept being subjective, with countless variables, the proposed design was created within a singular set of needs and ideals.
Recommended Citation
Sirvio, Noah, "Counterculturalism in Minimalistic Living" (2025). Architecture Theses. 37.
https://digitalcommons.ndsu.edu/architecture-theses/37