Embracing Simplicity: Olivia Purba and Dirkjan Tijs’s Journey to Tiny House Living in Bali

In an era where simplicity and sustainability are increasingly cherished, Olivia Purba and Dirkjan Tijs have carved out a unique path toward a more meaningful life. Leaving behind the expansive comforts of a three-bedroom villa in Bali’s bustling Canggu area, the couple chose to embrace the tiny house movement, constructing not one, but two tiny homes in the serene town of Ubud. Their inspiring journey reflects a growing global trend toward minimalistic living, driven by a desire to live in harmony with nature and reduce environmental impact.

Trading Space for Serenity: The Move to Ubud

Olivia Purba, a sustainability consultant originally from North Sumatra, and Dirkjan Tijs, a software engineer from the Netherlands, found love in Bali, a place they both call home. After two years in a spacious villa near Canggu, they realized the abundance of space was no longer necessary. Without children, the large house felt excessive, and the growing crowds in their neighborhood pushed them to seek a quieter, more sustainable lifestyle. "We thought, ‘Let’s go to Ubud, because it’s less crowded… and build something simple, sustainable, and just enough for the two of us,’" Olivia shared.

Ubud, known for its lush rainforests and terraced rice paddies, offered the perfect setting for their new life. The couple leased a 3,230-square-foot plot of land surrounded by trees and rice fields, yet close to essential amenities. Instead of buying the land, they opted for a 25-year lease, a decision rooted in both practicality and ethics. "A lot of land in Bali is being taken from the Balinese," Olivia explained. "This way, after 25 years, they can have their land back."

Building a Sustainable Future: Two Tiny Houses on One Plot

While many might opt for a single tiny house, Olivia and Dirkjan decided to build two. This unconventional choice was driven by both economic and emotional factors. Constructing two houses allowed them to share the costs of materials and labor, making the project more cost-effective. Additionally, the second house serves as a flexible space for hosting friends and family or generating additional income through rentals.

Olivia, who has a background in sustainability, designed the tiny houses herself, blending Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics. The first house, an L-shaped wooden structure, became their primary residence, while the second, featuring a loft-style design, was completed a month later. Despite having no formal architecture experience, Olivia’s vision, combined with the expertise of local contractors, brought their tiny home dreams to life.

Overcoming Challenges: The Logistics of Building Off the Beaten Path

The construction process was not without its hurdles. The remote location of their plot posed significant challenges, particularly in transporting materials. The only access road to the site was a narrow, 3-foot-wide path, navigable only by bike or three-wheeled carts. To address this, the couple rented a nearby lot to store building materials before they were carefully transported to the site.

Such obstacles, however, only strengthened their commitment to their new lifestyle. The couple viewed the challenges as part of their journey toward a more authentic way of living. "You realize that if there are things you don’t need, you shouldn’t just keep them," Olivia reflected, emphasizing the minimalist mindset that defines their tiny house experience.

Living in Harmony with Nature: Embracing Minimalism and Permaculture

At the heart of Olivia and Dirkjan’s decision to downsize was a deep desire to live in closer harmony with nature. Their tiny house lifestyle has allowed them to embrace minimalism, decluttering their lives and focusing on what truly matters. "Considering the size of the place, it’s not super cluttered. We try to limit our stuff," Dirkjan said.

The couple has also taken their commitment to sustainability a step further by starting a permaculture garden on their property. Growing herbs like lemongrass and parsley, as well as fruits such as pineapples and bananas, they are gradually moving toward self-sufficiency. Olivia even tends to a fishpond, though she humorously admits she’s undecided about eating the fish. The garden has become a source of peace and fulfillment, with Olivia often spending her mornings connecting with the earth. "Every day I’ll go check on my plants," she said. "It makes me feel peaceful."

A Fulfilling Life: Reflections and the Road Ahead

For Olivia and Dirkjan, their tiny house journey has been nothing short of transformative. Living authentically, surrounded by nature, has had a profound impact on their mental health and overall well-being. "Being close to nature has made a huge difference," Olivia shared, describing how the sounds of frogs croaking and water flowing lull them to sleep each night.

While their lifestyle may not be without its challenges—such as navigating the complexities of tiny house construction or adjusting to a smaller living space—the couple remains committed to their choice. Their story serves as an inspiring reminder that simplicity can lead to profound fulfillment.

As they continue to embrace their new life in Ubud, Olivia and Dirkjan are part of a growing global movement of individuals seeking a more sustainable and intentional way of living. Their journey is a testament to the power of redefining success and happiness on one’s own terms.