Building Célestine: A Belgium DIY Tiny Home for Sustainable Off-Grid Living
Words and photos by Antoine Heannaut. Previously published in issue 13.
On the scenic shores of Lake Genval, discover a Belgium DIY Tiny Home. Four young friends brought to life a dream of off-grid living in a tiny house. It all started when Sam and Nicolas, two Belgian students passionate about sustainable living, decided to build their own DIY tiny home. Soon joined by Max and Antoine, the group transformed a simple idea into a unique project: ERNESST — Epicureans Reunited for Nature, Ecology, and Sustainable Systems with Taste.
Born during the global Coronavirus lockdown, ERNESST reflects a deeper desire to reconnect with nature, embrace a minimalist lifestyle, and promote eco-tourism in local Belgian landscapes. As borders closed and routines shifted, these young DIY enthusiasts chose to create something meaningful and sustainable.
A Belgium Tiny Home Made from Recycled Materials
At the center of the ERNESST project is Célestine, a one-of-a-kind tiny house built from reclaimed and recycled materials. Designed to blend seamlessly into its surroundings, this eco-friendly cabin rests on a 6.6-meter trailer and offers 17 square meters of interior space, expanding to 25m² with its two mezzanine lofts.
Inside Célestine, every square inch is optimized — a hallmark of the tiny home lifestyle. There’s a fully functional kitchen, a cozy living area with a wood-burning stove, a dry-composting toilet, and two sleeping spaces that comfortably accommodate up to four people. The largest loft features a 160x200cm bed, perfect for couples, while the second offers a slightly smaller 140x200cm space — ideal for guests or children.
Living Off-Grid: A Daily Challenge and a Personal Journey
Living in a tiny home isn’t just about saving space; it’s a lifestyle shift. “It’s like a real-life game of Tetris,” laughs Sam. “Leave one item out of place, and the whole space feels chaotic.” But through careful organization and mindful downsizing, the team discovered the joy of living with less — trading clutter for clarity.
This shift also fostered a deeper mental and emotional transformation. “Once you let go of unnecessary stuff, you free up mental space too,” Nicolas adds. “It’s not just about building a house — it’s about building a life that feels grounded, purposeful, and connected to the earth.”
A DIY Tiny Home Build with Heart and Purpose
Over the course of seven months, the group poured their time and passion into Célestine. Sam and Nicolas, both students of wood construction, managed the planning and carpentry. Max and Antoine handled the digital side of the project, creating a website and social media presence to share their Belgium DIY tiny home journey.
The plot of land where the home stands — once abandoned for over 40 years — was also revived. They cleared brush, built trails, and added touches that encourage biodiversity and sustainable living practices.
Inspired by the Belgium DIY tiny home lifestyle? Explore more off-grid living stories, sustainable design ideas, and hands-on projects in Advanture Magazine. Buy your copy today and start your journey!
Supporting Local Makers & Eco-Friendly Design
In alignment with its core values, the ERNESST project supports local artisans and young eco-designers. From handmade soaps to locally crafted furniture, every element inside Célestine tells a story of thoughtful design and eco-conscious choices. This emphasis on sustainable materials and local craftsmanship enhances both the beauty and environmental integrity of the space.
Why This Tiny House Matters in Belgium
Célestine is more than a Belgium DIY Tiny Home and cabin — it’s a symbol of a growing movement toward off-grid living, tiny house building, and environmentally conscious design. It invites us to ask: What do we really need to live well?
For anyone considering their own journey into tiny house living, Célestine offers both inspiration and practical insight. It’s proof that with passion, teamwork, and a strong sense of purpose, it’s possible to build something beautiful, sustainable, and entirely your own.
Based upon the original story in issue 13 of Advanture Magazine by Antoine Heannaut @ahennaut
