Bandelier is a stylish and functional tiny house designed by the renowned Rocky Mountain Tiny Houses. Measuring just 8 by 28 feet (2.5 by 8.5 meters), it’s one of the company’s more compact creations but compensates with clever design, charm, and personality.
Commissioned by a young couple working as wildland firefighters, Bandelier was created to serve as their home near Bandelier National Monument in New Mexico. With special permission to park the mobile tiny house within the park, it doubles as employee housing and a comfortable retreat. The thoughtful design ensures Bandelier isn’t just functional—it’s a cozy and inviting home.
The tiny house was adapted from a DIY shell mounted on a triple-axle trailer, previously purchased by the owners. Rocky Mountain Tiny Houses reimagined the design, making exterior modifications, installing electrical systems, and crafting a warm, practical interior.
Bandelier’s exterior is understated yet appealing, featuring a black steel frame, wooden paneling, and a vibrant blue Craftsman-style door. Upon entering, a snug living area awaits with a sofa, wall-mounted bookshelves, and ample windows offering natural light and views of the surrounding park. A tiny wood stove sits on a tiled hearth, complete with firewood storage beneath, while a split-system air conditioner ensures year-round comfort.
The kitchen is fully equipped with quartz countertops, a gas stove, an electric oven, a porcelain sink, a full-sized fridge, and a microwave vent hood. Beyond the kitchen, a sliding door opens to a luxurious bathroom, notable for its full-sized bathtub—an uncommon feature in tiny homes. The bathroom also includes a faux stone surround, a high-quality showerhead, a flushing toilet, and a vanity with an oak cabinet.
A staircase that doubles as storage leads to the loft, which houses a queen-sized bed with enough space to move comfortably. Built-in shelves at the foot of the bed provide extra storage and privacy.
Compact yet exceptionally livable, Bandelier is a prime example of innovative tiny house design. While this model was tailored from a pre-existing shell, Rocky Mountain Tiny Houses estimates that a similar home would cost approximately $100,000 to build from scratch.
