There is a huge movement for this. And the perks are easy to get your head wrapped around: no mortgage, tiny expenses, tiny housekeeping .... if it is a fit for you, you can retire ten times earlier.
Some of these it is a bit like living in a piece of art.
Some of these are so easy, you don't have to be a carpenter to build them.
http://www.makeitmissoula.com/2011/07/the-small-house-movement/