The northern regions of Russia are unlike any other part of the country, and this uniqueness is reflected in nearly every aspect of life there. For instance, only in the North, the Ural, and the Far East will you find homes where people live in repurposed metal barrels. Specifically, these are shipping containers that were originally used for transporting goods by sea, but here, they serve as unconventional tiny houses.

This tradition dates back to shift workers (or “rotational workers”), who would adapt whatever materials they could into makeshift homes to survive the harsh northern climate. Over time, when the workers moved on, locals who didn’t have access to their own apartments or full-sized homes took over these barrel houses.

On the outside, these tiny homes look anything but inviting. Rusty and worn, they hardly resemble typical housing. However, once you step inside, you might be surprised. Some people have transformed them into fully functional living spaces, featuring double-pane windows for insulation, heated floors, and even a small entryway. These narrow homes often have a kitchen and two connected rooms, as the rounded shape makes other layouts impossible.

Despite the odd appearance and the limited square footage, some residents have managed to turn these barrels into cozy, livable tiny homes. The challenge, of course, is the space constraint, but that’s a familiar problem for tiny house enthusiasts worldwide.

The biggest issue with these barrel homes, though, is heating. It’s tricky to install a system that keeps the entire space warm, given the cylindrical shape and metal structure.

Still, there are those who’ve mastered the art of living in these unusual tiny homes, braving even the most brutal winters without a problem. They’ve turned what many might see as an impossible living situation into a surprisingly functional solution.

P.S. Share your thoughts in the comments below! Would you ever consider living in a tiny house like this?