Designed by Anna-Marie Chin Architects and completed in 2015, Tom's House is a compact, award-winning home located in the Jack's Point residential subdivision near Queenstown, New Zealand. The house was conceived as part one of a two-stage plan, and its design takes cues from the region's rural vernacular while providing a contemporary and dynamic living space. Drawing inspiration from a traditional rural shed, the architects utilized a simple, dark Colorsteel skin that wraps over the walls and roof of the building. The modest structure is given a modern twist through a highly sculptural Exterior: The simple shed form is reinterpreted with a gable roof running diagonally across the building, creating dynamic elevations that echo the surrounding mountain landscape. The asymmetrical ridgeline follows the contour of the land and provides variation in the internal ceiling heights. Dark, recessive tones were chosen for the walls, roof, and window frames to help the home nestle discreetly into its impressive natural environment. Interior: In contrast to the robust, protective exterior, the interior offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. Recessed areas, such as the porches and entry, are lined with honey-colored plywood, extending the interior outwards and creating a strong indoor-outdoor connection. The same warm-toned plywood lines the interior walls and ceilings, creating a sense of enclosure and coziness. Space optimization: The 156-square-meter home is designed for efficiency and flexibility. Its layout features numerous cleverly designed niches and hidden storage areas, including a mezzanine study accessed by a ladder above the dining area. Polished concrete floors provide a resilient base and help absorb warmth. Awards and recognition Despite its modest size and budget, the sophisticated design of Tom's House has been recognized with multiple awards: 2016 Home of the Year: Best Small Home (New Zealand). 2016 New Zealand Architecture Awards: Housing. 2016 Southern Architecture Awards: Winner. Credits Architects: Anna-Marie Chin Architects. Builder: Multiline Construction. Structural Engineer: Lewis Bradford & Associates. Landscape Architect: LAND. Photography: David Straight.