Biv Punakaiki is a 46-square-meter cabin designed by Fabric and completed in 2022, nestled within a rainforest in the coastal village of Punakaiki on New Zealand's South Island. Inspired by the historic gold miners' huts that once dotted the coastline, the cabin reinterprets this traditional aesthetic for high-end, short-term accommodation. Its form is characterized by a distinctive, off-center roofline that tapers upwards, echoing the shape of an old chimney stack. This design element creates a dramatic double-height ceiling in the living area, illuminated by a large skylight at the top, which funnels light down and connects guests to the sky above. The cabin was constructed using prefabricated, cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels, a choice driven by the material's low embodied carbon, which helps to offset the carbon footprint of the concrete floor and aluminum cladding. The exterior is wrapped in corrosion-resistant aluminum, a necessary feature for protection against the airborne salt of the coastal environment. Inside, the warm timber of the CLT is exposed, complemented by a polished concrete floor that provides thermal mass to help regulate the internal temperature. The architects incorporated passive heating strategies and high insulation to maintain a comfortable environment year-round, minimizing running costs and ensuring guests are always greeted by a cozy space. Intended to have a minimal impact on the land, Biv Punakaiki is elevated on a few concrete piles, allowing the structure to "touch the earth lightly". The design prioritizes a seamless connection with nature, featuring large windows and glazing that frame views of the surrounding native bush and nearby cliffs. The open-plan layout and minimal facilities encourage a focus on simple living, while luxurious details create a uniquely comfortable and relaxing experience. Biv Punakaiki was the first of a planned series of accommodation pods, each designed to provide travelers with an intimate and engaging experience of the New Zealand landscape. Credits Architects: Fabric Lead Architect: Mitchell Coll Design: Mark Panckurst Client: BIV Punakaiki Building: Tony Wilkins Photography: Stephen Goodenough Manufacturers: Altus Windows, PREFA, Roaring Meg Fires, Xlam