In the heart of Texas, a group of four couples, best friends for over 20 years, embarked on an extraordinary adventure. Seeking an escape from their hectic city lives, they joined forces to create a community of tiny vacation homes, where they could live out their dreams in retirement.
The friends found the perfect plot of land near the Llano River, a nature lover’s paradise about an hour from Austin. Although the land needed some work, they knew it was the ideal spot to build their tiny town.
The project began with a plan to build a shared house, but the friends soon discovered the tiny house movement and decided to build individual homes instead. San Antonio architect Matt Garcia designed four private 350-square-foot cabins, each with a double bed, kitchenette, and bathroom.
The homes were built with a focus on environmental sustainability, collecting rainwater for later use and using spray foam insulation to keep the indoor space cool. The exterior was designed with metal, while the interior featured warm, cozy designs lined with grained plywood.
In addition to the individual homes, Garcia designed a 1,500-square-foot communal cabin, perfect for gatherings and group activities. The building features a guest bedroom, living space, large kitchen, and even a pool.
The community, aptly named “Llano Exit Strategy” or “Bestie Row,” serves as a great getaway for the friends, who rent out the space to curious vacationers when they’re not using it. Although they’re not yet ready for full-time retirement, they’re enjoying their tiny town and the opportunity to spend quality time together.
The story of “Bestie Row” has sparked a lively online discussion, with some praising the friends’ commitment to their relationships and others expressing concerns about the potential risks of living in close proximity. However, for these eight friends, their tiny community represents a dream come true – a place where they can grow old together, surrounded by nature and the people they love.
