Irrespective of the tiny-house movement enjoying peak popularity in North America and Europe, the trend is gradually gaining ground Down Under. The downsizing movement is still in its primitive stage, but the micro cabins coming out of New Zealand and Australia never fail to grab attention. One such tiny cabin that is smash-hit on social media is a completely off-grid, Kererū Retreat.
Designed by Studio Well Architecture, the tiny cabin is based in Pudding Hill, Mount Hutt on the South Island of New Zealand. Sustainability is an ex-factor of the handcrafted alpine tiny retreat as the tiny dwelling boast a restrained build, with wood (salvaged timber) and galvanized steel shrouding the shack from all sides. The tiny cabin for its uniqueness and style won the ‘Best Residential Compact New Home‘ award in 2022.
Solar panels cap the shack’s roof making the 186 sqft cabin 100 percent self-powered. Not to mention the rainwater collection tank, which ensures you don’t ever meet a water shortage. Inside the off-grid cabin is a wood-burning fireplace to keep you warm (and boil water, if required) and a composting toilet that lets you pee and poop without worrying about your water bill.
Bookable for a stay on Airbnb for $190 a night, the tiny cabin features an elevated queen-sized bed sandwiched between the panoramic glass window and a built-in sofa. The window lets you peek at the native trees of Pudding Hill, while the sofa with built-in storage, houses your nitty-gritty items. The central area is covered by a folding table that lies beneath a window as well.
On the opposite side of the bed is a minimalist kitchen equipped with a gas stove, mini fridge, kettle, and overhead storage. Studio Well Architecture also mentions that there is a hidden bathroom, but it is difficult to decipher its exact position in pictures. However, I assume it’s adjacent to the kitchen. Apparently, there is even a loft in the tiny house, but not of it is made public at the time of writing.
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Overall, the gorgeous little cabin lives up to its hype and is an excellent hideaway at the foot of the mountain. Lively and clean, the place also offers gorgeous views of the beautiful surroundings. For those interested, book your stay on Airbnb, as the place seems open for the month of February.
