The amount of money that people spend on their homes can truly be astonishing, and one has to wonder whether or not they need all that space.
For example, I know a couple without any kids who own a summer home near Galveston with over four bedrooms. They don't even use them!
Personally, mansions don't inspire me. I'm more impressed by what some people can do with using just the bare essentials, like the teenager who was able to build his own tiny home from recycled materials, or the guy who built a cross-shaped house for clergymen!
Steve Areen is a world-traveling photographer who recently made his dreams of a dome home come true using his own hard work and cheap materials. Spending only $9,000, Areen was able to create a stunning tiny home in Thailand.
Scroll down for some incredible photos that show the construction of a truly unique dwelling! Please SHARE this article with all of your friends!!
Here's where his dream home started. Hard to believe, right?
The land was free, donated by a friend who owned a mango farm in Thailand. The friend said that Areen was welcome to the space if he was able to build his own home.
One of Steve's friends had a son with expert masonry skills so he enlisted his help.
With their combined expertise, they were able to create an economical, yet sturdy structure.
Areen takes great pride in his home knowing that from conception to actual construction, the house is 100% his creation.
Areen admits that he was able to save a great deal of money because the materials were purchased in Thailand rather than the United States.
The base of the home cost a mere $6,000.
Areen used local supplies to put finer details on the outside of the structure to help make it unique.
He painted it a perfect shade of mango orange.
The one-of-a-kind design sets Areen's dream home apart from the rest.
The construction took approximately six weeks to complete...
Plus a few more days to add finishing touches!!
These stone tiles were added after the initial construction.
Americans are sometimes wary of quick construction, but Areen's new home, built with cement blocks and compressed stone, is very well-made.
It may have been inexpensive, but it certainly doesn't look cheap.
Now, Areen is free to enjoy the house as he sees fit.
The outside of the structure includes some steps...
That lead up to a beautiful porch that provides fantastic view of majestic Thailand.
On the top of the dome there's a comfortable hammock that's perfect for relaxing while taking in the views.
Though the dome home is small, there's plenty of space outdoors for entertaining guests.
The dining area overlooks on Areen's new pond.
The house looks beautiful both by day...
...and at night.
Don't let the size fool you. It's deceptively efficient with all-natural accents, running water and even...
...a stunning walk-in shower!
The plumbing even makes use of native bamboo.
And, of course, he has his own bedroom dome too.
Areen hopes to improve upon his design in other countries and make a version that is more suitable for colder climates.
Please SHARE if you love incredible stories about hard work like this one.
