Size and Layout

The house measures 8 m x 3 m downstairs, with pop-outs at each end of just under a metre, bringing the total length to nearly 10 m including the shower and window seat.

Above, the bedroom mezzanine is 3 m x 3 m, with a window on each side that fills the space with light and air.

Structure and Frame

Built on a high-quality TME tiny-home trailer, the structure sits on a detachable 8 m by 2.4 m galvanised base (excluding the tow bar) with a removable sub-frame for easy relocation and maintenance. 

The watertight frame was built using Douglas fir for the main structure and macrocarpa for the mezzanine floor framing.

Built-in Storage

Throughout the home, storage has been integrated with care. A full-height wardrobe sits beside the entry, and the bathroom includes a second cupboard for linens and essentials.

In the kitchen, deep pantry drawers, under-stair cupboards, overhead shelving, and well-planned cabinetry provide generous space for everyday items and long-term goods. The kitchen cabinetry, window trims, and door trims are crafted from reclaimed rimu, giving the interior warmth and cohesion.

Along the window seat, a full wall of shelving is paired with three drawers at the front and a run of concealed cupboards with internal shelving behind, offering excellent hidden storage while keeping the living area open and uncluttered.

Everything has been built to make small-space living effortless, organised, and visually calm.

Cladding and Insulation

The cladding combines natural and durable materials: redwood timber on the front and one side, finished with a plant-based stain from Natural House Company in Motueka, and corrugated iron in ‘Scoria Red’ on the back and opposite side. 

The entire house is insulated with Terra Lana sheep’s wool, giving it warmth, breathability, and excellent acoustic comfort.

Interior Finishes

Inside, locally milled gum flooring and poplar ceilings are oiled with Natural House Company finishes, while low-VOC ply walls are coated with Natural Paint Company paint. 

Windows and Doors

All windows and doors except for the window seat are double-glazed and fitted with double latches for an energy-efficient seal. The window seat features a beautifully reclaimed cedar double-glazed unit that adds warmth and character to the living space.

The home also includes a discreet cat flap in the front door and a reclaimed solid-timber bathroom door, bringing additional handcrafted detail to the interior.

Bathroom

The bathroom continues the theme of character timber, with a reclaimed solid-wood door and a hand-finished cedar slab bench with raw edging.

A bucket-batch composting toilet includes storage for sawdust or the carbon material of your choice and a 12V ventilation fan for airflow.

Porch and Exterior Features

A detachable aluminium-and-poly porch by Tasman Canvas extends the living space, resting on a kwila timber base that can be removed for travel. 

Electrics and Lighting

Downstairs, there are five power points across the living area and kitchen, plus one in the bathroom.

Upstairs, there are two power points, one on each side of the end wall, along with two recessed ceiling lights.

The house is wired caravan-style and is fully capable of running a full-size fridge, lighting, and multiple standard appliances.

Plumbing and Hot Water

A 135L hot-water cylinder sits in a living-room cupboard, connected both to the wetback of the Roaring Meg “Mini Meg” fireplace and to mains electricity. 

The bathroom is plumbed for a washing machine, with room for a typical 8kg unit beneath the bench. 

The kitchen includes one-and-a-half sinks with a drainage board, generous bench space opposite, and excellent storage — large pantry drawers, cupboards under the stairs, and an extractor above the gas stove. 

Heating and Ventilation

Heating comes from the Roaring Meg “Mini Meg” fireplace with wetback. 

A solid timber clothes-drying rack hangs by the woodstove on a pulley system, making winter and wet-weather drying simple and efficient.