Located in the Berhampore suburb of Wellington, New Zealand, the Herald Garden Studio is a 183-square-foot timber-framed structure designed by Parsonson Architects to provide additional, flexible living space for a family in a compact Victorian cottage. Sited at the southern end of the property, the studio was conceived as a multi-purpose retreat, capable of functioning as a children's playroom, a quiet study, or extra guest accommodation as the family's young sons grow. The design is sensitive to its surroundings, with the studio sitting lightly on timber piles to minimize its impact and allow the deck to wrap around an existing olive tree. A sheltered, triangulated pergola and deck connect the new studio to the main house both physically and visually, stitching the two structures together while reinforcing the connection to the lush garden. The studio faces north to maximize natural light throughout the day, while the pergola helps to screen the interior from high summer sun. Inside, the material palette is raw, simple, and eco-conscious. The structure and internal linings are made entirely of wood, including zero-formaldehyde Strandboard finished with natural WOCA oil. This choice of materials lends a minimalist interior and aligns with the project's sustainable principles. The compact floor plan includes a main living area, a tucked-away bathroom and storage space at the rear, and a mezzanine level for sleeping, playing, or storage. The Herald Garden Studio demonstrates how clever design on a tiny scale can support sustainable urban infill, allowing a family to stay in their beloved neighborhood rather than moving to the suburbs for more space. Project credits Architecture: Parsonson Architects (Lead Architects: Gerald Parsonson, Craig Burt, Maximilien Tisserand, Amelia Hoult) Engineering: Spencer Holmes Ltd Contractor: Flawless Construction Photography: Paul McCredie