A creative’s path to independence, self-expression, and a home that works as hard as she does
For Ryan Tuttle, home needed to be more than a place to live—it had to be a space that supported her career, reflected her personality, and allowed her to thrive creatively. As a commercial and editorial photographer in the San Francisco Bay Area, she faced a housing market that was unaffordable and uninspiring. So, she teamed up with Minimaliste to design a custom tiny home that doubled as her sanctuary and studio. The result? A one-of-a-kind space affectionately named the Tuttle Shuttle—a bold blend of beauty, practicality, and personal meaning.
The challenge: creating a home and workspace in one of the most expensive places to live
Living and working in the Bay Area meant sky-high rent and limited space. Ryan needed something different: a home that was affordable yet inspiring, functional yet deeply personal. She dreamed of a place that would support her work, reflect her artistic identity, and bring peace to her day-to-day life.
"I wanted a space that reflected who I am—not just somewhere to live, but something deeply personal."
The solution: a tiny house as unique as her work
Ryan collaborated closely with Minimaliste to bring her vision to life, customizing the Noyer model to create a home that met both professional and personal needs. Together, they designed a 28-foot-long, 10-foot-wide house that balanced form, function, and soul.
Key features of the Tuttle Shuttle include:
- Elevated Living Area: A raised lounge with two seven-foot-long drawers underneath—perfect for storing camera gear and outdoor equipment.
- Multi-Functional Furniture: Custom flip-lid coffee tables that serve as storage, seating, and added kitchen space.
- Customized Kitchen: Dark blue cabinets, walnut counters, open shelving, and copper pulls blend style and utility.
- Sentimental Touches: A custom aluminum backsplash inspired by a ceramic planter gifted to her mother brings emotional warmth to the design.
- Dedicated Music Space: A small corner for her drum set ensures every part of her life—including creativity and play—has a home.
The outcome: a home that empowers work, creativity, and peace
The Tuttle Shuttle isn’t just a place to live—it’s a beautifully designed tool for living well. With 331 square feet of intentional space, Ryan now enjoys a lifestyle that supports her career and passions under one roof. The home has since been featured in Dwell and Apartment Therapy, becoming an inspiration for other creatives seeking to live life on their own terms.
Highlights of Ryan’s journey
- Customized Noyer Model: Designed for both daily life and professional photography needs
- Functional Storage Solutions: Hidden, spacious storage for camera gear and essentials
- Personalized Design: Every detail—from cabinetry to backsplash—tells part of her story
- Multi-Use Living Spaces: Furniture and layout that adapt to changing needs
- Recognized and Featured: Shared in major design publications for its unique blend of utility and heart
Every inch of my tiny house tells a story—my story. Minimaliste turned my vision into something even better than I imagined
.avif)
Discover your perfect tiny home
Schedule a complimentary 45 min call to unearth your tiny house vision