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2008 So You Want to Live on the Coast Special Section

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Coastal Cabana
Inspired by traditional teahouses found in Bali, architect Tony Gwilliam created a simple tented pavilion he sells in a kit. Here’s a look at the kit’s assembly and information on how to order.
Assemble the Frames
(Photo: Courtesy of Tony's T-House)
Assemble the Structure
(Photo: Courtesy of Tony's T-House)
Assemble the Roof and Floor
(Photo: Courtesy of Tony's T-House)
Attach the Roofing
(Photo: Lisa Romerein)
Personalize Your Teahouse
(Photo: Lisa Romerein)
Text by Elizabeth Raines Beeler and Allen B. Bunting

STEP 1: CHOOSE A LOCATION
Secure a sturdy foundation such as a cement platform or four large, flat pavers.

STEP 2: ASSEMBLE THE FRAMES
• Lay two posts parallel to each other along your bases, with floor joist and roof truss in between. Bolt the frame together.

• Repeat for the second frame.

STEP 3: ASSEMBLE THE STRUCTURE
• Lift the first frame upright, and bolt in floor joists on either side.

• Bolt on the second frame to create the freestanding structure.

STEP 3: ASSEMBLE THE ROOF AND FLOOR
• Attach the side roof joists across the frames.

• Drop center floor joists into place.

STEP 4: ATTACH THE ROOFING
• Hang roofing over the center roof beam and attach to both ends.

• Pull roofing over each of the four corners and attach.

STEP 5: PERSONALIZE YOUR TEAHOUSE
• Decorate your teahouse to reflect your own personal style.

• Add tapestries, curtains, or bamboo shades along the sides to create a private escape.

TO ORDER:
The Ojai, California, based business offers a range of sizes—anywhere from 60 to 400 square feet. Each prefabricated unit comes with an impermeable roof made of canvas, support posts crafted from Douglas fir, and sanded and stained decking (though customers outside California are encouraged to purchase decking themselves because of shipping costs.) Choose from a variety of styles (pictured: original 6 x 10 is $1,980) at tonysthouse.com, or call 805/646-7355.