Designed by WireDog Architecture

Andrew Simpson, the man behind WireDog Architecture, has built a compact home on an unconventional site that's perfect for himself, his partner Krysty and their whippets, Ben and Flynn.

Island Bay House Plywood Kitchen, Plywood, Timber Floors, Exposed Rafters, Timber Ceilings

Andrew started his architecture career interning in Kyoto, Japan, where he became interested in the work of Makoto Masuzawa - particularly Minimum House - which was designed to be affordable for Japanese families after the destruction of World War II. Minimum House's restrained footprint, but space defying strategies have influenced Andrew, and his design for his own Island Bay House.

Island Bay House Timber Deck, Sliding Glass Doors, Timber Kitchens, Rugs, Lounge Suites, Bookshelves

From the outside Island Bay House doesn't look that unusual. Clad in corrugated iron cladding with a gable, it recalls the universal child's illustration of a home. A translucent red square window hints that something more unconventional might be going on inside.

Island Bay House Timber Deck, Armchairs, Bookshelves

Indeed, Andrew and Krysty have both had their share unconventional living spaces. Andrew once constructed a cardboard nest for himself within the walls of an active warehouse. The two later lived in an apartment constructed partially from reclaimed windows. By comparison this house is run-of-the-mill.

Island Bay House Steep Sites

In keeping with the couple's preference for the unconventional, the site of his home is not your typical suburban block. Instead, it is nestled in the hills surrounding Wellington on a steeply sloping piece of land. It's the type of site most people would shy away from, but with its panoramic views of Island Bay, it was hard for the young couple to resist.

Island Bay House Urban Homes, Outdoor Areas, Timber Deck, Pendant Lighting

Central to Makoto Masuzawa's Minimum House and also to Andrew's design is one large wall of glass which can slide away to completely dissolve one wall of the house. By dissolving one entire wall, the compact 50 square metre home suddenly feels a lot more generous. It helps that Andrew and his family have a spectacular vista of the bay to enjoy.

Island Bay House Joinery, Lounge Suites, Bookshelves

The wall of glass is oriented not just to take in the view - it also captures the afternoon sun. Combined with higher than normal levels of insulation, Island Bay House doesn't require heating in winter. And while the weather in Wellington is mild compared to the South Island, that's still a big achievement in New Zealand's cool climate.

Island Bay House Joinery, Bedrooms, Timber Ceilings

The other strategy for making the space feel larger is a double height space over the living area. The mezzanine bedroom above is small by traditional standards, but as it opens to the spaces below, it feels a lot more spacious.

Island Bay House Timber Floors, Exposed Rafters, Armchairs

The bedroom is protected by a balustrade of bookcases. This layering of functions is a great way to save space. Great design is creating elements that serve more than one purpose.

Island Bay House Timber Floors, Staircases, Exposed Rafters, Timber Ceilings, Bold Colours

With a construction budget of under $150,000, the couple were able to incorporate relatively high quality finishes, including the beautiful torrefied white ash floors and ceilings. The process of torrefing involves heating the timber in a kiln until it caramelises, revealing beautiful natural honey tones.

Island Bay House Outdoor Areas, Timber Deck, Pendant Lighting, Rugs, Timber Ceilings

Trading floor area for high quality materials, extravagant gestures and multifunctional spaces means the young couple and their beloved dogs can live large in this compact and beautiful home.

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