Feature article

Top Trends for Small House Design

Explore these award-winning small homes that were designed on a budget and tread lightly on the land.

Last updated: 28 March 2024 | 4 min read

AI summary

Small house design is a growing NZ trend, offering sustainability and cost savings on smaller sections. Success lies in smart design, creating multi-functional spaces and using clever storage.

To make rooms feel larger, use neutral colours, maximise natural light, and embrace minimalism. The award-winning Brooklyn Mini FAB by Bonnifait + Associates exemplifies these principles. Consulting an architect can help you plan a functional home that feels spacious despite its small footprint.

Small house design: from suburbia to the beach

In the 2024 Small Home of the Year, the kitchen island doubles as a workspace; storage is incorporated under the stairs – each space versatile and multi-functional to make the most of the compact footprint. Image: Paul Brandon

Small house design: creating multi-function, adaptable spaces

A large deck area extends the usable living space of this tiny home in Wellington by Bonnifait + Associates, the 2024 Small Home of the Year, and increases the connection with the natural environment. Image: Paul Brandon

The 2024 Green Home of the Year, Back House by Strachan Group Architects, is a minor dwelling for a family of three. Using cross-laminated timber construction (CLT), to form the structure and interior floor, walls and ceiling, the reduced material palette helps to deliver a beautiful play of light and enhance the sense of space. Image: Paul Brandon

Small house design: interiors that speak large

The 2024 Green Home of the Year, Back House by Strachan Group Architects, is just that; a minor dwelling that makes the most of a sunny spot in the back garden. Careful planning allowed for the design of a home that feels spacious and comfortable for its occupants, a family of three. Image: Paul Brandon