The House on Hill is a minimalist, 15-square-meter off-grid tiny house designed by furniture maker Callan Green of Green Studio. Built in 2024 for under $20,000, the temporary retreat is located in the rolling foothills and eucalyptus forest near Sarsfield, Australia, at the beginning of the Great Alpine Road. The project was not approached as a traditional design exercise, but as a response to an inventory of salvaged materials that set the constraints for the construction. Its design was guided by a desire to highlight its natural surroundings and to exist lightly, with the potential to one day leave without a trace. The structure was built from a salvaged metal container that had a previous life receiving grain. The exterior is clad in corrugated metal sheets, giving it a rustic, utilitarian aesthetic that echoes the industrial heritage of the region. One notable feature is a circular opening in the roof, which creates a movable shadow that joyfully marks the passage of time inside the home. Despite its compact size, the interior feels spacious and open, thanks to large folding walls that can extend the living area to the outdoors. These large openings, along with mechanical veranda awnings made of steel and polycarbonate, create a dynamic transitional space that functions as a deck, boot room, and al fresco dining area. Inside, the home incorporates kitchen, living, dining, bedroom, and bathroom areas within its footprint. Salvaged timber, including century-old kauri pine and reclaimed Victorian Ash beams, was used to craft the interior's stunning timber finishes. Every piece of furniture, from serving plates and stools to shelving and storage, was custom-made for the project by Green Studio, maximizing the use of the limited space. A sliding timber screen separates the compact wet area. The overall effect is a small retreat that is deeply connected to its natural environment. Credits Architects: Green Studio Lead Architect: Callan Green Photography: Callan Green Location: Sarsfield, Australia