round-eyed tiny binocles homes bring compact living on wheels
tiny binocles blend carpentry craft with ecological freedom
Founded in 2024 in Guidel, Brittany, France, the company Tiny Binocles designs and manufactures compact mobile homes characterized by their distinctive round windows and use of bio-based construction methods. The structures combine practical living spaces with sustainable materials, reflecting a design approach rooted in carpentry craftsmanship and ecological responsibility.
The twin circular windows, a defining element of the Binocles series, provide daylight, natural ventilation, and framed views of the surrounding environment. This feature not only establishes the houses’ recognizable identity but also enhances their environmental performance. Founder Ambroise Humeau, trained with the Compagnons du Tour de France and in Switzerland, applies techniques influenced by boatbuilding, emphasizing compactness, efficiency, and durability while incorporating natural finishes.
all images courtesy of Tiny Binocles
the design emphasizes compactness, efficiency, and durability
The Binocles collection consists of six variations. Grand-Duc (22.18 sqm) spans two mezzanines, accommodating four to six occupants. Lapone (17.39 sqm) is a single-level model designed for step-free accessibility, while Chevêchette (12.94 sqm, 4.28 m length) offers a compact solution for two. Each unit is mounted on a 3.5 t trailer, keeping them legally towable under Europe’s standard B(E) license. Alongside the Binocles series, the company also produces the Classiques collection, which adopts more conventional aesthetics.
Sustainability principles are integrated into every design. Timber is sourced from responsibly managed regional forests, insulation is made from bio-based materials free from petrochemicals, and natural oils are used to protect wood surfaces, allowing them to age without synthetic coatings. Prototypes were presented at the 2025 Grande Expo du Morbihan in Vannes and the Foire Internationale de Bordeaux, where visitors could explore the first series of models. With its combination of modular design, ecological materials, and distinctive architectural identity, Tiny Binocles positions its houses as adaptable mobile dwellings suited to diverse contexts.
Tiny Binocles specializes in compact mobile houses
each design is defined by its distinctive round windows
the houses combine practical layouts with ecological materials
circular windows frame views of the landscape
bio-based construction methods are central to the approach
the design emphasizes compactness, efficiency, and durability
timber is sourced from responsibly managed local forests
the round openings also provide daylight and natural ventilation
natural oils protect wooden surfaces without synthetic coatings
project info:
name: Tiny Binocles | @tinybinocles
designer: Ambroise Humeau
location: Guidel, Brittany, France
models (Binocles): Grand-Duc, Lapone, Chevêche, Noctua, Hulotte, Chevêchette
models (Classiques): Masquée, Oural, Épervière, Pagodes, Petite-pagodes
dimensions & areas: 12,94 sqm–22.18 sqm
materials: timber frame, bio-sourced insulation, natural finishes, locally sourced woods
mobility: 3.5 t trailers; permit B(E) category
status: in production, showcased Vannes 2025 & Bordeaux 2025
designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.
edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom
The post round-eyed tiny binocles homes bring compact living on wheels appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.
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