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They downsized dramatically for a tiny cottage that was once an 'ugly duckling'. Now it's winning awards

A former barracks became an award-winning tiny home where one family discovered less really is more.

Alan Granville
Last updated: 18 June 2026 | 3 min read
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A Wellington family downsized into the award-winning Sergeant's Cottage, a former barracks transformed by architect Guy Tarrant. The property features two 33m² buildings connected by a deck, a project that won at the Wellington Architecture Awards.

Despite its small footprint, the home is praised for its clever design, surprising sense of space, and efficiency. The family enjoys the benefits of tiny living, including more outdoor time and mindful consumption, proving that less can indeed be more.

The crooked blue gate at the front holds sentimental value. Photo: Simon Wilson

The covered deck adds extra valuable room. Photo: Simon Wilson

The kitchen is compact next to the living room. Photo: Simon Wilson

The kids “love” the home. Photo: Simon Wilson

The sleepout has white-painted battens. Photo: Simon Wilson

The bunk room and Luke’s bedroom are in the same building. Photo: Simon Wilson

The rimu sarking from the original main house was re-milled and lines the inside of the sleepout. Photo: Simon Wilson

There are still plans to build that bigger house on the land, but for now the family are happy with their lot. Photo: Simon Wilson

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Alan Granville Alan Granville
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