Minimalist Family of 5 Living in a 1 Bedroom Apartment to Save Money

In this video, we meet a family of 5 living a minimalist lifestyle in a 600 square foot, 1 bedroom apartment, in Ontario, Canada. Heather, Dominique and their 3 children moved from an 800 square foot suburban condo into this 600 square foot apartment to reduce their living expenses in order to pay for an early intervention therapy program for their eldest son who is autistic. The cost of the therapy program is over $5,000 CAD, per month. They’re able to save close to $2,000 each month by keeping their living expenses low, and they fundraise the rest of the money they need: www.gofundme.c...
The apartment has a kitchen and bathroom and one large living area that they use as a dining room, living room, and master bedroom for the parents. The single bedroom has a set of bunk beds, and one crib, as well as lots of floor space for toys like a trampoline.
The couple have gotten into the habit of regularly donating stuff they don’t need, doing the dishes and cleaning up frequently to keep the space clutter-free, and living without things after they break instead of replacing them (like their kettle for example).
The couple says they’re able to make this minimalist living situation work because they prioritize their son’s therapy and education over accumulating objects. At first, minimalism was meant to be a short-term living situation to pay for their son’s therapy for the first year, but they’re enjoying the simplicity and the savings that their lifestyle brings and they may continue after the year is up so that they can save more money for future expenses that might come up.
Thanks for watching!
Mat & Danielle
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Blog: www.exploringalternatives.ca
Facebook: /exploringalternativesblog
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Music & Song Credits
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All music in this video was composed, performed, and recorded by Mat Dubé of Exploring Alternatives.

[@happyavocado4634]

The fact that you detach yourself to all your stuff for your son is priceless.

[@polola9772]

:)

[@ahmadawan11]

here's a few ideas on how to de-clutter fast Give yourself five minutes every day to tidy up Give away one item each day Fill up one trash bag now! Make a list of what to do this week. Buy four sacks and sort everything into trash, give away, keep, or relocate. (Reference: Nilah Declutter Tips site )

[@sharonkambale6211]

Especially that we live in such a materialistic world.

[@catherineleary9462]

Happy Avocado I agree. It's a beautiful thing to see.

[@ronderulijkummar7453]

That's the way it should always be. Kudos to this family!

[@campingcarjoa]

Raising 3 children is challenging enough, but having one with special needs? They are a truly remarkable young couple that has their priorities straight.

[@kimberlymason7080]

CampingCarJoa But stop having kids!

[@cindy8323]

kim mason that´s not your decision to make though! I hate if people get judged for the amount of kids they have! It´s only their bussiness and if they can handle more kids, mentally and financially, than where is the problem? (P.S.: Sorry for my bad english)

[@livpointon3755]

My mum has 6 kids

[@buksiblingsfun8906]

Love Beauty My great grandmum has 15

[@buksiblingsfun8906]

*had

[@kristibeth6370]

I'm very happy to see minimalist views portrayed in regular housing and not just in the "tiny house" movement!!! So cool! Yes people around the world live in small spaces. Thanks for sharing . Loved it!!

[@YasinKaya123]

Great comment. Thank you.

[@IrisMG]

My big brother, myself, and my mom lived in a one bedroom apartment until I was nearly 12. It's doable. You do what you need to do to survive.

[@boricuababyhuey7576]

Thanks for this! So many people who are quick to be negative forget this simple notion.

[@clFer777]

That's hard. But even harder go in when you don't have the need (I mean it's not obvious )

[@holiday-td6hx]

People think that they have to have the most expensive best living quarters. The idea of each child having a bedroom is in my opinion...ridiculous. My sister and I shared a room for several years prior to my parents builidng a new home. When my sister & I got married within 6 wks of each other, to make room for all the things we were either receiving as wedding gifts prior to our weddings, or purchasing things for our new homes as newlyweds, etc. we shared my younger sister's bedroom. It was great sleeping in the same room again, knowing full well that we would probably never get the chance to do that again after we were married. People today spend far too much money, then they have money troubles and wonder "how" it happened. It's okay to go to garage sales to look for furniture, clothing, etc. You don't have to have the "newest" thing, just because a friend who makes 3 times what you do has that newest gadget. Live within your means. This couple is awesome, absolutely awesome.

[@lexicarolyn5938]

i live in a one bedroom apartment with my older brother, my mom, and I currently..

[@lizzykerns8310]

Bad thing is that it's not legal everywhere, I lost my son because of leaving this way.

[@komandantData]

For the people shouting out "poverty", without getting all spiritual and alternative: having a huge college debt is poverty, having a mortgage over your home is a risk at least, credit card debt is poverty, and not having adequate social healthcare- that is real poverty, and this is how most Americans unfortunately live: being poor without even realizing it. So stop judging others before taking a good, honest look in the mirror.

[@freegurl76]

Amen...debt up to our asses and acting like we're rich! I am considering living in a tiny home as a means to help pay off college debt. It makes no sense to live in a huge place and drive luxury vehicles when you can't really enjoy it bc you are always working!

[@mumof4monkeysthomas359]

komandantData- Ah, my favorite comment by far. There is hope for the world afterall☺

[@mumof4monkeysthomas359]

Realfeminist76 - So true!

[@chicagogyrl7849]

Yes, I think they are strapped for cash. They have a go fund me begger page. Why not a 2 or 3 bedroom? I have no student loan debt, I have no mortgage, my house is paid for, no credit card debt, and I have great insurance through my city, so no, I am not "poor" by your standards, I am not in your "most Americans" class.

[@Roajlara]

Isn't renting paying for somebody else's mortgage n making them rich?

[@KALYNSHangingOutWithKalyn]

Who says you cannot live in a one bedroom, do what you have to do and you are right, people around the world live in small spaces and they live just fine. Quality of life and happiness is more important!

[@ladonnad.steele2470]

They are young and wise...this is beautiful! They love their family more than money. Those kids are so very blessed!!!

[@marquisdehoto1638]

the only point is that you don't have our own private space. this can be a bit of a problem sometimes

[@zoeredadams]

+Jared Leto yeah Older children need their own space, I believe, and if having sex often is important in your marriage then that will suffer

[@KALYNSHangingOutWithKalyn]

Another good point. You can live tiny easier if you have some walls between you.

[@motherintoronto]

Not everyone's sex life is relegated to night time in bed. Personally, love shower sex.

[@ChristysChannelYall]

I have an 18 year old son with autism. He has received therapy his entire life and is so high functioning now. It is just amazing. It makes me happy to see you putting his needs first. You will never regret it!

[@jenniferw1191]

I love that, 'appreciate it's beauty, but not possess it'.

[@hph9590]

+Jennifer Walker Yes, that perspective made me think for a moment.

[@cooldesert30]

That was a profound quote

[@HolisticDetective]

Me too!!

[@Goodygoodya]

wow, that is really great.

[@MsEliteForever]

Jennifer Walker Slogan for the broke.

[@user-hi9cv1sc2i]

I love this couples attitude. They're fantastic parents.

[@silpae]

Minimalism is so beautiful in many ways. It teaches you what's worth it and what's not. Also, I am glad that more people are seeing that this North American ideals of having lots of space is ridiculous. Sleeping in your living room is fine, it's a room. Having 3+ children sharing a room is fine, as long as they have a big enough and comfy enough bed. Beautiful family :)

[@marisua3018]

Less stuff = Less Stress & more time with family. Love this! We Americans can learn a lot from your video. 💗

[@angelahicks1946]

Sooooo glad too see you as parents putting yr son and his needs ahead of things that don't matter .its nice to see there are still people that know how to be focused on not being selfish....

[@MalinaCC]

Love what Heather said about appreciating beauty instead of possessing it!

[@uncagedlearning]

This is inspirational. To those who are repeatedly saying, "Wait till they become teenagers and it'll all go downhill", that's not necessarily true. It's all about how you RAISE your kids. More than likely, if they are homeschooled, have manners, and get used to being happy with just what they have, they won't grow up to be the spoiled, bratty, ungrateful public school teens that we see today. They will appreciate being with their families more than those who have their own rooms, with their headphones on all the time and their doors locked, blocking out family. I have seen a lot more families in this position, or even living in RVs full time, mostly because they chose to downsize have fullfilled, happier lifestyles than those with all the amenities in the world. Full time RVers have a ton of kids that range from ages 18 and below, and those teens are happy because the world is their 'room'. They're not confined to that one RV, anyway, so what's there to be unhappy about? It's all about how you raise your child and what values you instill in them, NOT how bedrooms you can afford. ;) #dropsmic

[@mumof4monkeysthomas359]

Your comment makes so much sense. We were told the same and our eldest is 12 and so far so good. He wants to share a space with his siblings and is more focused on being outdoors and school than his own space.

[@uncagedlearning]

Mumof4monkeys Thomas That's awesome! That's what matters. Wholesome family time. We have 4 kiddos too and that's what we're instilling in them. We have a tiny place and although it can be burdensome, I'd rather not have them all in separate rooms all the time. My oldest is only 7. lol

[@caseynichols3306]

We have been looking for a 3 bedroom house bc I just found out I was pregnant with my third and this video inspired me a lot that I don't NEED a three bedroom and it is possible to live in my current 2 bedroom. Maybe small. We just need to find a way to create storage

[@mumof4monkeysthomas359]

Casey Nichols- We live in a 675 sq ft , 2 bedroon apartment with 4 children (13,10,7,2). It's doable and worth it in the long term, I believe. We are very close as a family and my children are grounded. If you have questions feel free to ask. My e-mail is [e-mail] Best of luck!

[@jaoshawilliams322]

@@mumof4monkeysthomas359 do all 4 kids sleep in 1 room

[@Matt.Jungfleisch]

These folks have adapted to their apartment. They make it work because they want and need it to. Kudos to them !!! 😀😀😀

[@Etamar-yg4sy]

Less clean up is my main motivation for being attracted to minimalist or small living. It brings the families so close and I believe that you learn to be more cognizant and respectful of other people spaces. Nice looking family. Good luck and God bless, cool running.

[@WINWITHunWIN]

we're almost a family of five living in a 1 bedroom. we live in California, and because rent here is outrageous, we have learned to live together in a small space.

[@reginagaytan-campos285]

Do you have a video?

[@Fulltinyhouse]

We are a family of 5, living in our RV... Half that space, actually less. And our kids are bigger. It's definitely a new way of life, getting used to, but we have a different backyard every week and get to see this beautiful country. Best of luck on living tiny :) We love it!

[@Bellucci-zy6sl]

This is incredible! Anything is possible! What do humans need the most? Love, food and shelter. Simple.

[@marilynwillett804]

Jesus and then it.

[@gsgaming4403]

@@marilynwillett804 Amen, are you a Cristian

[@SimpleFull]

I love this family! They are very wise and such a great example! Thank you for sharing their story!!!

[@MzCrayKray]

Everyone keeps saying "Oh, but wait until they're older." This is what the family has to do to make things work in their life. If the children grow older they will have to live with it and make do. It looks to me that they are creating a loving and rewarding atmosphere for their family regardless of the space they have. They are going to have to find a way to be intimate as well which I'm sure is not a problem. Yall are worried about the wrong things. They downsized to save money and be closer to the things they need. I'm in a similar situation with my own small space except I'm a single mother. I would love a bigger space but for now we have to be happy and make do with what we have. And some people don't have a place at all so if we are still in this small space as my child gets older. Sorry kiddo. Such is life. It could be worse.

[@Ikwigsjoyful]

People are always seeming to forget that for generations of people, a family living in a one or two-room dwelling was the norm. Extra space is nice, but it's really more necessary for having stuff, than it is for having a healthy and happy family.

[@MzCrayKray]

Ikwigsjoyful Exactly.

[@averychampion6927]

No it's not really necessary, but I feel like overall space and privacy is important in family relations. My parents didn't deprive me of my own space as a kid but they did fill it with their own junk and never let me decorate or really have my stuff in my room. (Mom's a hoarder) I felt cheated of a childhood as I got older, especially seeing other kids with rooms full of their own stuff, and I gauruntee you these ones will too.

[@averychampion6927]

I don't think you should have children if you can't give them their own space to grow up in. And if you're only doing it to make them grateful? Yeah, good luck. Kids aren't grateful. You chose them. They didn't choose you. They'll spend your money and break your heart and whine about everything. And doing this? I gauruntee you it'll just make them grateful to be out on their own far away from you for the most part.

[@aliendruglord]

IF the children grow older lol I sure hope they do!

[@keeskees8839]

Love this. Shows what is important and learns to live with eachother instead of every member of the family in a separate room.

[@sheilamacpherson4948]

This is how we all should be living. We choose materialism over happiness. All that space just gets taken up with stuff you can't afford. You don't have to own every thing you find beautiful. I agree with her, you appreciate things in a different way This family is making the beautiful choice.

[@Joeyblondewolf2]

It's small but their a very happy family :) and the kids look very loved ❤️

[@cario6554]

Wow much respect for this family. They have their priorities straight. At first I was like no way they’re crazy, but they have more patience than I ever could. Y’all are doing great and have it together

[@giaalvarado2063]

this is amazing. I'm so glad there are still people out there that aren't materialistic.

[@lindylindybasicoceangirl]

...wow...so refreshing to hear the logic of prioritizing a family’s needs by accepting a minimal lifestyle...simple can be less stress...loved this vid

[@emiliebussiere2371]

This was really inspiring, thank you! I've been debating downsizing and moving my son and I to a 1-bedroom to try and save money and pay off debt, and seeing other people doing the same thing, with an even larger family is really helping give me a push in that direction.

[@shieh.4743]

Most of the world lives like this. Most families around the world don't have 1 room per person in their house and even in North American, two-three bedroom houses with 4 or more kids was totally normal until the 1970s.

[@mindyschocolate]

Shie H. I have four siblings. We stayed in three bedroom homes with the seven of us until I was nearly 15. I’m astonished when I hear of a family of four living in a four or five bedroom home.

[@ladyb4325]

To be honest I clicked on this video just to say, wow, no way, they're crazy! but then by the end of the video I have a whole new appreciation for their family and the minimalist living.

[@markeziabennett334]

I loved this the minute it came on. Im currently pregnant& have a 4yo&a 2yo. And a one bedroom is what'll have to work for me and my babies. Very smart way to save. Thank you for this . it still helps in 2019

[@katielarsen2630]

We have 4 in our 1 bedroom, and 5 when my stepson is in town:) we keep saying we're going to move but it honestly still works really well. It feels more spacious than most 2-3 bedroom apartments I've seen

[@micjakes1]

Incredible. Looks alot bigger than described. Very organized family.

[@dawnfranklin7280]

how did you find a landlord willing to rent 1 bedroom to a family so large.

[@christinb5766]

dawn franklin My thoughts exactly. It’s illegal where I live. 2 heartbeats to a room is the rule, no matter the age of the third heartbeat.

[@76svetlana]

In most countries there is no such rule on maximum occupancy. People rent as per budget and requirement. I stayed in North America for 6 years. Even there, the rule did not apply in all cities. For ex: In Charlotte and Houston I could rent a 1BHK for family of 3 where as in New Jersey, Denver and Austin I had to rent a 2 bedroom apartment.

[@toughntiny]

@Kayla Olshove sounds like intrusive America

[@karmaluvv7620]

Because she doesn't live where you do.

[@D3ViiANT]

Christin Burns Heartbeat, specifically? Because that would mean that a pregnant couple sharing a room is illegal....

[@AGM-ts5bb]

This was a good move. Don't let anyone convince you otherwise. With a 2 1/2 hr. commute AND a child on the Spectrum, you obviously chose your sanity, your child and family first.

[@Lambokitty95]

It's cool that the apartment allows them all to share one room. Many where I live require families to "upgrade" into an apartment with more rooms once they have even one small child.

[@blotchilim1980]

Salute for the family's decision to move into the current home. Commuting for 2-3 hours is not a joke! Wish you all the best!

[@WannaBFree]

Awesome family! I think there is a wave in this country where people are either forced or a few by choice, realizing that we don't need much to live a fulfilled life. I am certainly one of those people. The more downsizing I do the more ridiculous my old lifestyle appears and the more freedom I have. Personally I think this is exactly what our country needed weather it be by choice or circumstance. We will be better for it in the long run.

[@dragonflywings1234]

Hi how’s this family doing today? Such a precious family❤

[@lisahaddon3113]

Such a cute loving family. All are happy and content, love it.

[@TheTaits08]

Brilliant! Brilliant people! I wish them all the very best. They have truly discovered the true meaning of life and family. What a inspiration!!

[@luella2897]

I think this is fine and seems to work very well for this family. My son found out that in some locations, such as the Wash. DC area, many landlords WILL NOT rent smaller apartments to a large family unless their are a lot of bedrooms. It was difficult for them to find an apartment in their budget!

[@destinal_in_reality]

+Luella R Such a silly rule, the US seems obsessed with large homes.

[@uncagedlearning]

+Luella R Same here in Georgia as well. We struggles to get our 3 kids into a one bedroom, and I was preggo with the 4th kid, which they did not know. They have such foolish rules in the U.S.

[@hmacfarl]

+Luella R The City of Ottawa has by-laws against who can sleep in which room. I.e. children under a certain age can share a room, but not with an adult etc. Don't have a link, but the landlord did not make it an issue.

[@ramonabennett1973]

Congratulations to your family. You realize what is important to you. Good Luck!

[@kiarataylor8380]

Thanks for this video! My husband and I are in a similar situation with our 2 sons. This was really motivating to see that we are not alone :)

[@annettegloeckner1654]

Family is all that matters! Good parents putting your kids first! We have a son with autism. Keep doing what your doing.

[@0HARE]

They are doing it right. Less Stuff, More Freedom

[@ionasanaa3844]

Much respect to them. They are living not existing like the majority of people. More isn't always good.

[@kerriegrant6293]

YOU HAVE MY ADMIRATION, BUT EVEN NOW, AS A PENSIONER WITH, and now alone, in a 3 bedroomed house, i couldnt live in that small space, it would drive me crazy, how u manage dears, with a hubby and 3 babies, i cant imagine! kudos to you 2.

[@freyagrayden9851]

Having 3 children with autism who were fortunate enough to have early intervention, I just want to commend you for putting your son’s needs first. He will grow up a lot more able to be a productive Man. My autistic children are now 17, 12 and 10. If I compare them now to how they were before all their therapy, it is like looking at different people. Unfortunately, I have also seen what happens when Parents aren’t as proactive as people like you. Children who were at the same level of functioning as my kids and didn’t (for whatever reason) receive the therapy they needed, are now as a result functioning at a much lower level. That golden “window of opportunity” from 0 to 6 or 7 really makes all the difference in later life. Kudos to you all!

[@kucibaba]

5 People in two rooms? That is a lot of space. In Poland many people live 6 or 7 in even smaller apartments.

[@dagooglenet]

+kucibaba2 Yeah, it was the same in Soviet Union most of the apartments was even smaller. Did not really care since we were playing outside most of the day. No computers, internet or any video game consoles. We were happy :)

[@freegurl76]

+dagooglenet Thank you for saying this...when I was a kid back in the 70s we were taught to play outside and not remain indoors unless it was a meal time or bedtime. That's why Americans are so claustrophobic now and unhealthy. Most Americans want to live in huge homes to get away from each other and to play on electronic devices. That's why you hear us saying ignorant statements about 900 Sq feet being too small for a family and or you see them killing their parents. No family values or closeness!

[@aarulf]

I like having privacy. I hate having to be around people all the time. I just need some time to myself. Did you ever consider that there are people who need time away from people?

[@freegurl76]

Alex Arulf I guess if you see your family as just "people." I guess I am not bothered with being around ppl since my career is centered around just that...people, I am from a really close knit family, and I have an 18 month old so you will get no privacy with that age. Sorry I don't understand wanting to be away from my family/kids bc I enjoy being with them. Some ppl are like you and do like to seclude themselves...That's not my personality.

[@Ikwigsjoyful]

+Alex Arulf I like having privacy too. I am a very traditional introvert; in order to be healthy and functional I need time without other people around (even my family, though I love them). But I live in an old house under renovation, so at any given point there may be only two or three small rooms available for living space. So you learn how to make that alone time for yourself. I'm a morning person, so I get up at 5am and have two blissful hours alone. I make time for hikes by myself. We all take turns when there are events that multiple people are going to, so that at least one member of the family gets to stay home and have the house to his or herself. There are plenty of ways to have time to yourself when you're living in a small space with other people!

[@RobertF-]

This got deep really quick about not getting attached to physical possessions. Very interesting video. Very well done. Thanks for making it.

[@AC-pq1cd]

It's true you really don't need much more than love, food, and shelter to survive. I sometimes watch KZbin videos and am shocked at the amount of things people have these days but probably do not use.

[@geniemeadows5122]

Yeah I hear you but we don't have a garden shed so we have all stuff inside everywhere ...people need a ladder, tools, (garden stuff to but we have a place outside for small things)......kitchen stuff, clothes dryer, laundry baskets, beds, storage of some sort, heaps of everyday things so often they do use those things if they own a home. I do love the uncluttered look though if humanly possible (doesn't seem so often in our case with a tiny place)! There are lots of things we do need inside that I reach for on a regular basis.

[@xitlalicastro5422]

Great family, the couple looks so young but they are so mature. Awesome example about what is truly important.

[@ExploringAlternatives]

Heather & Dominique are fundraising to keep their son in therapy: www.gofundme.com/therapyforjacob

[@heatherwillis6391]

+Herb Seed what does supposidly mean?

[@XX-yj5dz]

Heather and Dominique need to realise that we autistic people are happy as we are, thank you very much, and any therapy with the word 'intervention' in it is not a good idea

[@zoeredadams]

+Ellie Fuller you may be, but for some children it's very stressful and means they get kicked out of elementary school

[@_innerpeacekeeper]

excuse me, they are not freeloading bums! do you have any idea how much autism therapies cost? it's a real drain on family finances. if you're not going to help or wish them well, move along!

[@ciderbu4425]

the nerve they have. wow

[@randomyoutubeperson6954]

Hats off to this family. Wishing them all the best! They have a great perspective!

[@desinoel4851]

it always blows my mind on how a minority family does this and its called ghetto but as soon as some white people do it its called an alternative lifestyle.

[@Limitlessgal]

See somethings beauty and have detachment from it..... I have a small space w a family of 5 (almost 8, almost 4, 16m kids) and. Sog , and it seems to get so overwhelming for me although our lay out is different and I think I must be holding onto too much

[@johnbeecroft1037]

Beautiful film! We don't own objects, they own us. Thank you for the tour of your home.

[@kierstensmith1505]

I really enjoyed minimalism being shown as a lifestyle instead of a design style. They are being incredibly frugal and there is beauty in that simplicity. Loved it!

[@starstruck522]

What a lovely family and home. The mom is very neat and organised.

[@Melisblessed]

God bless them. Doing what you have to do for your child. Beautiful!

[@vincentdeguard4726]

Sometimes having less means one has more...less "stuff" but more smiles.

[@StepswithSarah]

Wow, As a family of 5 living in a small 2 bedroom unit, I can fully relate to how quickly it can get messy, but I love how quickly it can get tidied up as well 😊

[@CadburysCaramel99]

What a beautiful family who have focused on what's important. Kudos to them. Such a motivating and encouraging story.

[@omfug7148]

I grew up in a small 2 bedroom, one bath home with 7 people, LOL, it is doable.

[@catherineleary9462]

omfug Exactly the same here 👋! I slept in my baby bed for a long time because there was no place else to go😊

[@silvermoonluna5844]

Yeah but was it comfortable? Lol 😆

[@aicilaazlabas934]

Amazing and strong family. We have a 2 bedroom 1000 square foot apartment. Mom, dad, two girls, and we are expecting number three. I was starting to feel worried we wouldn't have enough space with the baby coming. It's nice to see things from other peoples eyes. We are all blessed in different ways. I'm so thankful for what we have and so happy for this family. They seems so down to earth and humble. I love it.

[@Homeschooltogo]

What an inspirational video and family! Thanks for sharing.

[@ExploringAlternatives]

+Two moms and baby…maybe Thanks for watching, happy you enjoyed it :)

[@bubbaallred]

Really professionally done! One of your best yet.

[@PAREdown]

We just LOVE what you guys are doing at Exploring Alternatives! BIG BIG BIG high-fives from the west coast. We need to be highlighting the stories that yo u are more often, because they are the contradiction to what mainstream media tells us we need to have/own/buy/be to be happy and successful. Keep it up!

[@jilleenmacpherson6945]

Thank you for this beautiful video about this amazing couple and children. I love their perspective and admire them for the decisions they have made for their family.

[@littleblondemop]

I have to say this was fun to watch. You keep the small place pretty nice. I'm not sure this arrangement would when the kids are older, but while they're small. Sounds like you take advantage of places that are around you and you're not at home all day all the time.

[@jamjamb123]

It can easily work when they are older

[@nicolcacola]

+priscilla L Lol well that's a definitely a matter of experience and opinion. My family lived this way until my kids were 12, 8 and 3..it got much harder as the kids got older because less room and less personal space for the older children. We moved to a bigger place, while less cost efficent, but we're all alot happier. So from my experience, it will be more difficult when the kids get older.

[@jamjamb123]

+Nikki H me and my brother always shared a tiny room. people need to remember if kids need space they can go outside and play. i have a 3 bedroom house and 90 percent of the time my kids camp out in each others rooms

[@nicolcacola]

priscilla L Yes it wouldn't have worked any other way lol. I have all girls and they do get along, but the extra space has given that extra peace in our house at least.

[@freegurl76]

+Nikki H They don't get along! Extra space is needed when your kids fight like cats and dogs...and you are too cowardly as a parent to put your foot down when they argue. Tell the truth and shame the devil...😒

[@felizelastic9617]

Being simple and organized leaves a lot of room in your mind and life for memories and actually living. Love this idea

[@Lotus3six9]

Just do what makes you happy! We are free to choose the kind of lifestyle that we want. 😀

[@jonathanbmBen-Menachem]

Thank you many times for this wonderful video. Your website is fantastic. Many thanks!

[@ExploringAlternatives]

+jonathanbm2000 Ben-Menachem Thanks so much! Happy to hear you're enjoying the videos and website. Have a great day :)

[@wawalcdiva13]

Some peoples comments on here Smh... This channel is called exploring alternatives... Maybe it's not the channel that's not alternative enough, maybe it's your thinking. Each and every person has the right to define their own environment of alternative living as it means to them... Broaden ur minds and hearts naysayers and trolls... Sry had 2 cents to put it in was bugging me... Rant done

[@zilazilazila]

ThriftyBossBabe While I somewhat agree with your comment, others are allowed to state their own opinions. Maybe you should explore alternative opinions instead of thinking you’re the only one who is open minded.

[@TexasbyStorm]

Jo Co isn't it ironic. Lol

[@Tifferoonie1]

It was the love for their son that motivated them to live a "tiny" lifestyle because they knew that it wouldn't change the big amount of love they have together. This is beautiful.

[@LenusichkaLena16]

Most people in my country live like that, the only thing is that 1 bedroom appartment in our country is a small kitchen (no living room area at all, just like that white kitchen area in their apartment) and one semi-large room. That's it.

[@matijustus4774]

God bless your family, it is so inspiring to see, you are a wonderful parent

[@graceday7203]

Somehow we've gotten away from what is truly important in life. We had a tiny 2 bedroom house with one bathroom when I was little, but bigger seems to be better now and people are wanting McMansions. I applaud your decision and wish you the best.

[@HolisticDetective]

100% agree. We had a 640sf, 1.5br house before we moved into this 850sf, 3br "monstrosity" which honestly isn't even that big by modern standards, but I hate it! So much wasted space. Fortunately we kept the old one, and the day the tenants move out, I'm moving back in...

[@EllyKallan]

such great parents!!!! I am so proud of you. you sacrifice for your children. well done! simplicity is the key to a better life.

[@silverfairyforever]

i have so much respect for these people.

[@maddyblack7697]

This is such a great family, wonderful, selfless parents who have a great way of thinking and put their children first. Also the dad has gorgeous eyes!

[@motherintoronto]

As someone from a family of 5 this is really helpful! I've looked up small space living for families and all of them have 1-2 children. Or they have a 1000sqft and call is living small. Would love to see more of families in smaller spaces and how they make it work. Only families who have more than 1-2 kids.

[@mumof4monkeysthomas359]

I agree. We have 4 children and live in a 675 sq ft apartment and wish there were more videos of people doing it with multiple children and older children. Oh and a 1,000 sq ft is certainly not small. I am with you on that point as well.

[@ricochameleo9815]

Wow. You are amazing people. Wow . Much love and light to you and your Family . Peace .

[@marshalljimduncan]

4:28 Love the view out the window!

[@lovelylynn1338]

People shouldn't judge. If it works for them, that's great! Its not going to ruin their children, they're not harming their children. They're not living in filth or on the streets. Ya gotta do what cha gotta do. So good for them.

[@JanisMayers]

What a lovely family, thank you for sharing

[@anaidcastaneda2942]

I also have a Family of 5 in a one bedroom duplex. its pretty small but weve learned how to adjust. and what they said it is soo true , you learn that u dont need to go and get the latest stuff or buy so many things. and Its made our life a bit easier without having to stress too much for not being able to pay the bills. Imglad i watched this. its really helpeful seeing that were not the only ones living like this.

[@ClipsTV20245]

to be fair your apartment has more space than some family homes in the UK. However I really like this film and your perspective on life. I have 4 children and I am not as organised as you. I take my hat off to you!

[@AmorVitae93]

this is a great example of great parents putting there children's need before there own. once u have kids ur life revolves around them

[@saotree4711]

Very inspiring :) I too lived in a small space with young children - two children having autism. We too fundraised :) we fundraised to travel from England to Mass, US to the Option Institute to do the Son-Rise programme. You may have heard of it? It was massively successful for both my sons who are now all grown up having been to college and now working. I admire you putting your kids first and living the way you do gives you so many blessings many of which you'll count in hindsight I'm sure. Wishing you and your beautiful family continued happy and meaningful times together. God bless you :)

[@LouiseFlynn95]

It's good that you have built in storage !

[@mariarayo1430]

beautiful family, God blees you and full your live of love. regards from Spain

[@purplepassionfreedom1352]

They really look like a genuinely lovely family and the kiddos are gorgeous. I wish them every success.

[@jocelynelangis777]

Here is a very interesting way of living, It it takes some guts but this is the solution not just for them. Love the music and the subject.

[@meheretoday6968]

well done. I too have kept things I should have gotten rid of years ago. I will be using the take a photo technique.. good luck with Jacob

[@hmacfarl]

Beautifully done Danielle and Mat!!

[@ExploringAlternatives]

+Heather MacFarlane thank you! :D

[@melissamcgovern3736]

Found this vlog today. This is so inspiring. Myself and my son live in a one bed place and I always feel less because I can't afford to move. Your simplicity makes me happy

[@niebieskimotyl3308]

This is nothing uncommon in Poland for families to live in such arrangements. A friend of mine was raised in 30 square meters (322 feet), one room with 3 siblings.