Looking for a more livable canvas structure? Consider a tent house. These permanent-style tents are often used by folks who love to head into the wilderness and appreciate connecting with nature.

However, these multipurpose tents can also be used to create some extra space at home, whether that’s a private guest suite, quiet office space, sunlit art studio, or even a healthy breathing room.

But, to get the most out of your permanent canvas space and make it last, it helps to learn how to choose a tent house. One that is specially constructed, both durable and beautifully designed. That way, you can use it year-round, get creative, and make it what you will!

Here are some tips to help you choose your very own tent house.

Select the Right Tent House Size

Having an extra space to escape to in your backyard is one thing. But outright living in a tent is another.

If you plan to move into a tent house, make sure its living quarters accommodate everyone comfortably. Standard tent sizes are not always what they seem, leaving a footprint for just sleeping bags. But if you live in a tent permanently, you and your family will want a roomier space for gear, seating, and all those other creature comforts.

Yes, creature comforts. Permanent living quarters require extra room to move about. You might even want some privacy. Ask yourself if you want multiple rooms, a common space with a seating area and table, or even an attached bathroom or kitchen. Of course, if the tent house structure is an add-on to your residence, ask yourself what amenities you will need. For example, an office desk or a guest bed.

Not sure how much room you need? Learn more about the sleeping capacity of tent houses like bell tents.

Choose a Tent House With Quality Features

Quality canvas materials and other features–like stitching, zippers, stakes, and guylines–are important too. Durable canvas and overall construction ensure your tent house can take on Mother Nature and provide the longevity it needs to be your home, office, or guest suite 24/7.

One feature of canvas is its natural waterproof and weather-resistant abilities. But, if you really want to take it up a notch and stay warm and cozy, choose a tent house with DoekTec canvas tent fabric. Taking it a step further, four-season canvas tents guarantee ventilation and breathability in the summer and yet are insulative enough to keep you warm in the winter. So, if you live in a tent house year-round in a region that sees colder temperatures and even snow, a four-season canvas tent house is a must!

Some other features to consider might be things like a:

• Protective ground tarp or footprint to help keep the tent clean and offer extra insulation
• Rain fly or tent roof covers to protect the canvas from UV rays, condensation and mold to reduce maintenance.
• Sturdy hardware such as short wall poles and pegs to reinforce your tent house’s structure, especially in windy areas and under snowfall
• Pre-cut stove jack hole for a wood stove to cook and keep the tent interior cozy and warm while you stay longer

Find Tent Houses With Easy Set Up and Storage

Setting up camp should be easy. Granted, tent houses make great permanent structures for living in the outdoors for weeks, months and more, so you may not have to raise the roof often. But it helps when the process is straightforward and offers features like collapsible poles.

One convenient way to do so is to build a dedicated tent platform or deck. This way, your tent house is off the ground and stable during wind and rain. A solid wood foundation not only secures the canvas structure, but elevates your tent house, both literally and figuratively. And it makes a wonderful addition to a multipurpose tent in a backyard.

And when your camping trip is complete or you need to pack it in for whatever reason, your tent home should be easy to take down too. Either way, setting up and folding down should be a breeze!

Speaking of which, when it’s time to pack down your tent house, you’ll want to have a convenient storage option. Many canvas tent houses come with a durable carrying bag with straps for portability, making it easy to transport from car to home and then some. Carrying bags also make for extra protection and neat and tidy storage when your tent house is put away for the season.

The Benefits of Tent Houses

Living in a tent for an extended period of time, like two to three weeks or months, requires more thought. Your standard nylon tent might not do the trick, which is why many seek out canvas tent houses that offer more structure, comfort and beauty.

Also, unlike traditional housing options like hotel rooms or ADUs (adjacent dwelling units), a tent house offers a more sustainable option.

How Would You Use A Tent House?

So, how would you use a tent house? To escape to the outdoors? Or to find a little quiet time in your own backyard?

Let us know in the comments.