Thoughtfully-Designed Bunkie for Families in Ontario
Introduction:
Good design makes every square foot count, and Plan #21-0058 proves just how much can be achieved in 274 square feet. This intelligently laid-out bunkie pairs functionality with comfort, offering a 17'-6" x 11'-2" bedroom and not one but two spacious decks (18'-5" x 8'-6" and 21'-11" x 12'-2")—either one serving as the perfect locale for morning coffee or stargazing after a lake day. Adding a guest suite, creating a backyard office, or carving out a personal retreat? The thoughtful proportions and light-filled vaulted spaces ensure it never feels cramped. Let's take a closer look at what makes this plan stand out.
What is a Bunkie?
A bunkie is a small, standalone structure typically smaller than a guest house but bigger than a shed. Think of it as your property’s bonus room: no kitchen or full bath, just flexible space for guests, hobbies, or work. Ideal for when you need extra room without the cost or complexity of a full addition.
The Bedroom
At first glance, the bedroom in Plan #21-0058 looks like a standard sleeping space, but it is actually where the thoughtful design really shines. With its generous proportions and vaulted ceilings, this single room can transform to suit your changing needs, proving that limitations often spark the most creative solutions.
Guest Retreat
Configured traditionally, the space easily fits a queen bed with enough room remaining for nightstands and a small dresser. The high ceilings prevent the room from feeling boxed in, while the gable windows flood the area with natural light, which is a welcoming touch for visiting friends or family.
For longer visits, use a petite sofa bed or daybed to create a dual-purpose lounge or sleeping area. Pair this with a wall-mounted fold-down desk for the occasional work needs, and you’re maximizing every square foot.
Home Office
Swap the bed for a sleek desk and ergonomic chair, and suddenly you've got a serene workspace. Position your desk to face the windows for natural illumination that reduces eye strain, and use the vertical space with floating shelves for storage. The separation from the main house means fewer distractions, and the half bath nearby adds convenience.
Yoga or Meditation Space
You can even clear the room entirely for a minimalist wellness retreat. The airy, vaulted ceiling creates an uplifting atmosphere for practice, and the optional deck access means you can flow seamlessly from indoor to outdoor sessions.
Decks
With not one but two generously sized decks, this compact bunkie extends its functionality far beyond four walls. Let's explore how these outdoor spaces elevate every possible use of the property:
Back Deck (18'-5" x 8'-6")
The back deck gives you a solid functional space right where you need it. It’s big enough for a couple of chairs and a small table, giving you somewhere to sit with your coffee in the morning or take off dirty boots before heading inside in the evening. It offers extra storage for potted plants or anything else you don’t want cluttering up inside the bunkie. The roof overhang also keeps things dry, and the size keeps it low-maintenance.
Front Deck (21'-11" x 12'-2")
Larger than the back deck, this space gives you room to do more than just enjoy a quiet morning. It’s big enough for a proper outdoor table and chairs without squeezing in sideways to sit down. Or you can set up a few lounge chairs, a couple of camp chairs, or even a picnic table for friends without the whole thing feeling cluttered.
This is the deck where you’ll want to do your grilling, too. There’s plenty of room for your barbecue with space to work. No balancing plates on the railing or shuffling around the hot coals. Set up a small prep table beside the grill, and you’ve still got walking room to get in and out of the bunkie without needing to squeeze by anything.
Extra Details
The half-bath is one of this bunkie’s smartest features. By including just a toilet and sink, you avoid the plumbing complexity and space demands of a full bathroom, while still covering the essentials. Guests won’t need to trek to the main house every time nature calls, and if you’re using the space as an office or studio, you’ve got convenience without wasting square footage on a shower you’ll never use.
The vaulted ceilings allow for potential overhead storage shelves, and the area beside the half-bath door could fit a shallow coat rack or hooks.
As always, remember to check local zoning rules before finalizing plans; setbacks and permits vary, and the last thing you want is surprises to pop up after construction starts.
Conclusion
The beauty of this bunkie lies in its simplicity: no wasted space, no unnecessary frills, just thoughtful design that adapts to your life. Whether you're hosting summer visitors, creating a backyard office, or carving out a personal retreat, this compact design proves good things come in small packages. It's all the space you need, and nothing you don't.
Ready to make this cozy bunkie yours?
See the full blueprint and start planning your perfect space today at House of Three.