Tinakori Hut

Currently on the drawing board.

Tucked away amidst the wild bushland of Wilton, a captivating bush-hut style dwelling offers a peaceful retreat that seamlessly blends rustic charm and modern comfort.

The house is inspired by the traditional kiwi DOC hut, which were infamously painted bright colours such as red for wayfinding in the dense bush of Aotearoa. Though utilising all the comforts of a modern inner city home, the form remains true to the gabled cabins that dot New Zealand wilderness.

Although simple in form, the house turns away from its neighbours in favour of the expansive views across the hills and bushland beyond. A high level window occupies one end of the gable, allowing morning sun into the living space, while the northern face opens up with a glazed threshold bringing nature inside.

The steep site lends itself to the privacy factor of positioning the house lower than street level, and creates an immersive amble down a bush track to the entry.

Inside, plywood floors and walls continue the natural ambience of the hut’s bushy surroundings, and create a sense of warmth reciprocated by the woodburner at one end of the living space.

A ladder leads to a small mezzanine - a place to work or for kids to play. The hallway leads to two bedrooms and a bathroom, each maximising the views over the valley below.