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This Tiny Home Is the First of Its Kind for Wind River: Flawless and Minimal Mobile Living

Signature Series Rutledge 10 photos
Photo: Wind River Tiny Homes
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In the world of mobile and tiny living, there are a few teams you need to be aware of, and one of them is Wind River Tiny Homes. Well, this time around, we explore their first "signature series" habitat, the Rutledge. Better balance those checkbooks because this one may tempt you to look into a different sort of lifestyle.
If the name Wind River Tiny Homes (WRTH) sounds familiar to you, we've featured their work on countless occasions. But, because this version of the Rutledge is different than the previous one, it deserves its very own article; it's that good!

At this time, the Signature Rutledge starts off with a price tag of a bit under $152K (€136K at current exchange rates). In comparison, their previous unit, a 38 ft behemoth, begins at around $139K (€124K). The Signature version, on the other hand, stands out not only because WRTH built this unit from the depths of their own mind but, in doing so, has given rise to a park-worthy RV with luxuries and styling often encountered in land-locked homes.

For starters, it's important to not just how much space is available in this unit. Overall, 395 sq ft (36.7 sq m) are available on the main level, with a master bedroom and 1.5 bathrooms. But, it does come in with the same length as the previous Rutledge, is also bumper pulled, and sits on a quad-axle trailer.

Now, one thing you need to consider about park-ready anything is that it differs from the usual off-grid machine. Typically, these units are equipped with only shore power connections and water intake and outtake systems. So if you want to take this beauty above and beyond into the wild, you'll definitely need to clear up your roadside stay with local authorities and require solar power, battery systems, and a few others. Luckily, everything else is already taken care of. There's a propane setup, propane-less water heater, and heating and cooling, too, hence why 50 A shore power is necessary.

Rutledge
Photo: Wind River Tiny Homes
One way this model differs from the previous one is in the way the exterior is shaped and treated to look the way it does. Overall, 2x4 framing is used, upon which a metal roof, painted boards, and natural cedar is set. Once your 3D rectangle is filled with closed-cell insulation, you can bet your bottom dollar this puppy can handle four-season use. A rain screen has also been applied over the dang thing, so no worries that it's wood.

However, it's the interior of this beauty that really propelled me to bring it to light. While there's only one current image of this unit's predetermined and designed interior, I've added a couple of other images of the other Rutledge to give you an idea of what's possible. Still, the modern and minimalist look of the park model is really what the new unit is all about. There's also a little video on Wind River's Facebook page that shows what a completed unit can really look like.

One thing to consider when you take a closer look at a tiny home is that they typically offer the essentials that any land-locked home would. This means that there's a massive kitchen, nothing like those found in RVs, a living room, a bedroom, sometimes two or even three, and in this case, 1.5 bathrooms, one for the owners and guests that live in the Rutledge daily, and a service bathroom for guests. The latter feature is a must in case privacy is important to you.

Signature Series Rutledge
Photo: Wind River Tiny Homes
At this time, I wasn't able to find a blueprint for this unit, but the manufacturer's build overview hints at what's inside the series. Overall, it seems that two sleeping areas are available, one on the main floor and one at the opposite end, as a loft, a living room, and a galley that's as equipped as the one I have at home.

While you have a look at the gallery, make sure to notice features like maple shaker cabinets, leathered granite countertops, the smooth and painted panels making up the walls and ceiling, and hardwood floors. Did you notice the washer/dryer combo unit or the four-burner top and freezer? How about the fiberglass used to craft the shower or leathered granite once again?

Listen, I could sit here and point out all the little knick-knacks this mobile home has to offer, but in truth, there's really only one way to get a feel for something like this; give old Wind River a call, head down to their manufacturing grounds, and step inside your future adventure-ready home.

Take a moment to imagine what you'd do with the lofts, where to put the e-bikes, and how your mornings may unfurl. Throw on some solar panels while you're at it and take things to the next level. Maybe even add an awning or two, craft a porch, and even hang out under the stars, all from the safety of your home, no matter where in the world you may find yourself. Honestly, not all tiny homes I cover make me feel like I want to own it, but this one does, and let that be a warning to your bank account.
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Editor's note: Images in the gallery include an array of Rutledge models.

About the author: Cristian Curmei
Cristian Curmei profile photo

A bit of a nomad at heart (being born in Europe and raised in several places in the USA), Cristian is enamored with travel trailers, campers and bikes. He also tests and writes about urban means of transportation like scooters, mopeds and e-bikes (when he's not busy hosting our video stories and guides).
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