Kāhu Cottage banner
Project by
Year of completion
2022
Project cost
$0.25m - $0.5m
Building style
Cabin

Set below the Remutaka foothills with expansive views out over the Wairarapa, this small home packs a punch. 

Its simple barn form rests naturally within the landscape. Large openings frame picturesque views of farm fields and rolling hills, connecting the occupants to their rural setting.

Mixed species, re-claimed hardwood cladding nods back to the sites agricultural history. It is also durable and hard-wearing, attributes which are shared with the bold-form iron that wraps the rest of the building.

The project was restricted to 60m² by planning requirements. Despite the condensed footprint, it still includes 2 bedrooms, a fully functioning bathroom, comfortable open plan living space, and a separate laundry. Generous openings provide a substantial connection with the surrounding land, further increasing the feeling of space within the home.

High performance foundations, windows and insulation ensures the home is warm, dry and quiet.

Photographer: Caleb Chan Photography

Topcat Architecture
Wellington
Kahu Cottage has actually exceeded my expectations. I was blown away with the finished product, which sits beautifully in its rural setting.  Jeremy and his team have always been super approachable, and flexible with my requests - even when those requests were difficult and often untimely! I would thoroughly recommend Jeremy and his team if you want someone who will work with you to fully realise your building project - Dylan Bennett
Kahu Cottage
Small Lifestyle Living

About the
Professional

Topcat Architecture is a family-owned practice based in the Kapiti Coast. With projects nationwide of varying sizes and complexities, we cater to all needs.

We offer Architectural and Planning services for residential, industrial and commercial work. Our range of practical and theoretical knowledge allows us to design solutions which look good, function well, and piece together smoothly. The team really does have hands on, hammer and nails experience as well as academic qualifications. Whether it's a kitchen wall removal or a large block development, we can take care of it.

We listen to our clients, believing the best outcome for a project is when clients are excited about their project and once completed, wouldn’t change a thing. We don't tend to follow any particular style, instead developing a design solution which is shaped in response to the site and our clients own aspirations.

Call today to discuss how we can help bring your vision to life.

At ArchiPro we recognise and acknowledge the existing, original and ancient connection Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have to the lands and waterways across the Australian continent. We pay our respects to the elders past and present. We commit to working together to build a prosperous and inclusive Australia.