cut out skylights bring nature into biv cabin in new zealand

a getaway cabin for adventurous travelers

Nestled in the green oasis of Punakaiki, New Zealand, this tiny cabin is a dream destination for those who desire a romantic escape. The form of the structure takes its cues from the exterior chimneys repeated on historic gold miner huts, with its body rising upward toward the sky. Cut out skylights and various openings in different geometric patterns let the interior overflowing with outstanding blue and verdant views. The design team sought to create a humble hut with modern facilities that create an effortlessly comfortable space for travelers. However, the architects opted for a subtle balance between minimal and luxurious, offering a space that fosters an intimate bond with nature while maintaining all the comforts with an emphasis on simple living.

‘We largely took inspiration from historic gold-mining huts local to the area. Internally the sky-facing skylight represents the top of a smokestack, while the large amount of windows offer views into the bush or the cliffs beyond for an all-encompassing West Coast experience,’ shared the team.

all images by Stephen Goodenough

Biv celebrates ‘simple living’

Designed by Fabric architecture in collaboration with the client, who is a Hong Kong-based architect, Biv is perceived as a getaway cabin for high-end, short-term accommodation. The material palette is mainly limited to metal for the envelope and timber for the inside. The aluminium cladding is custom folded to underline the form of the building and ensure minimalist detailing.

The exterior represents the historic gold-mining hut aesthetic, while timber in combination with glazing is ideal for a welcoming ambiance that enjoys nature, fosters contemplation, and exudes tranquility. As the site is secluded, the team opted for cross-laminated timber (CLT) for its prefabricated off-site construction, thermal performance, and negative embodied carbon. A small fire was installed to further add to its atmospheric attitude, while the spaces are deliberately underlit. The fully glazed surfaces capture generous amounts of the bush, generating many ‘instagrammable’ moments for its guests. A durable concrete floor resting only on a few concrete piles with no formal landscaping further accentuates the idea of ‘simple living’.

the cabin promotes a connection to the immediate environment and relaxation