This one-bedroom, one-bathroom Raglan retreat wears its heart on its sleeve. A fully exposed steel beam structure is key to the sturdy, honest design. Exposed roofing iron has been used in place of soffits to continue the theme.

Locally sourced cladding materials feature throughout, from pine plywood walls and ceilings to locally milled macrocarpa weatherboards and decking. Glass sliders enhance flow to the outdoors.

Superbly positioned to capture the afternoon sun and amazing views of the rugged Waikato west coast, the interior is a well-insulated and welcoming space. Double-glazed low-emissivity glass welcomes in the rays, delivering natural warmth to highly insulated polished concrete floors, which lasts into the evening.

A compact wood burner helps to keep this 70sqm interior cosy in the depths of winter. A 25,000-litre tank collects rain water underground. Positioned on the deck, the hot tub provides an indulgent dip. It’s a beautiful spot to soak up this design and its beautiful surroundings.