Quality over quantity
Riding the wave of the tiny house phenomenon is local builder Grant Waghorn of Red + Black Construction.
What inspired you to begin building tiny houses? As die-hard fans of Scandinavian design, we had noticed that, although their houses aren’t especially big, the space they do have is used efficiently and effectively. And it got us thinking about the typical New Zealand ‘dream’ that generally has four bedrooms, and is not only expensive to build, maintain and clean, but is also seemingly at odds with Kiwis’ love of nature and outdoor living.
So we started following the tiny house movement on television and on social media, and we soon realised that the demand for modern, smaller and more affordable housing in New Zealand was quickly gaining momentum.
Why build a tiny house? The biggest draw card for many people is the ability to own a beautiful architecturally designed home: building on a smaller scale makes this dream an affordable and achievable reality.
Tiny houses make fantastic first homes for those new to the housing market; they are an attractive option for those looking to downsize; and, they may be used as a self-contained apartment on an existing section – for guests, or to be rented out, generating additional income.
As they are built to be transportable, they can go anywhere and on any type of terrain – by the beach, near a lake, in the forest or on a farm. We even had one helicoptered into a remote spot on the West Coast to be used as a hunting retreat.
What scope is there for customisation? While there is a base package of $94,000 for the standard size, design and materials (including the trailer), as each Nook Tiny House is tailored to suit each individual, there are endless options available.
You can increase the scale, introduce additional design elements, and use any number of different materials, fittings and finishings. Add a mezzanine, extend the length, increase storage, or clad it in any number of different timbers or steel: the possibilities are limitless. We particularly love the drop down retractable deck option, which can be used for towing, or for providing ultimate security when you go away.
How is a Nook Tiny House a cut above the rest? We offer architecturally designed homes that are usually reserved for the wealthy. Built to a high level of detail and quality, we have enlisted the expertise of a qualified architectural designer and engineer for optimal efficiency, economy and longevity.
Designed to stand alone, the standard size can be increased, and any number of modifications or additions made to accommodate each client’s individual needs. They can also be linked to others with a glass walkway. Clad in a solid timber envelope, they can either be stained black or left to silver in the elements.
Can Nook Tiny Houses operate off the grid? While the standard package comes with mains power and water, it can be fitted with solar and gas options, and a carbon toilet and grey-water system can be added for total self-sufficiency.
Nook Tiny House – at a glance
The standard package
+ $94,000
+ 6m long x 3m wide x 4.2m high
+ Coloursteel, baby iron or Kingspan cladding with plywood interior
+ Pink Batts insulation and double-glazed windows
+ Mains water and power
+ Triple-axle trailer, steel frame and electric brakes
Optional features
+ Cedar or Siberian Larch cladding
+ Fold-down deck, front/back
+ Custom in-built furniture
+ Mezzanine floor
+ Longer space
+ Modular glass walkway to join one Nook to another
+ Solar power and grey-water system
+ Bambooloo carbon toilet
+ Gas hob and gas fridge
+ Cocoon biofuel fire
03 304 8417 | nooktinyhouse.nz