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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.
AI summary
A Wellington family transformed a rundown former barracks into an award-winning tiny home. The Sergeant's Cottage, renovated with architect Guy Tarrant, features two 33m² buildings connected by a deck, creating a compact but functional three-bedroom home.
The project has won multiple accolades, including from the Wellington Architecture Awards, for its intelligent and joyful design. The family finds the space highly efficient, encouraging more outdoor time and mindful consumption, proving that thoughtful design can make a small footprint feel surprisingly generous.
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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