Last updated: February 21, 2026
Key Takeaways
- The English Garden by South Base Tiny Homes eliminates typical tiny house compromises with a complete single-level layout—no loft beds or ladders required
- Measuring 12 meters long and 4 meters wide, this permanently anchored coastal home delivers 48 square meters of apartment-quality living space
- Features include a full kitchen with oven and proper appliances, a private bedroom-bathroom suite, and extensive storage throughout
- Built to New Zealand coastal and high wind zone standards with 5-year warranty and award-winning construction quality
- Starting at approximately NZD $230,000 (US$137,000), representing premium tiny house living without traditional sacrifices
Quick Answer
The English Garden by South Base Tiny Homes is a 12-meter single-level tiny house permanently installed on New Zealand’s coastline that rejects traditional tiny house compromises. Instead of loft beds and cramped kitchens, it offers apartment-style living with a full kitchen, private bedroom suite, extensive storage, and seamless single-floor flow. Built by award-winning architect Chris Pyemont, this British-inspired coastal dwelling proves compact living doesn’t require sacrificing comfort or functionality.
What Makes the English Garden by South Base Tiny Homes Different from Traditional Tiny Houses?
The English Garden fundamentally reimagines tiny house living by eliminating the vertical compromises that define most compact homes. This single-level design means no climbing ladders to bed, no steep staircases consuming floor space, and no crouching in loft bedrooms with limited headroom.[2]
Key differentiators include:
- Complete single-floor layout with full standing height throughout every room
- Apartment-scale kitchen featuring full oven, gas cooktop, farmhouse sink, and proper refrigerator-freezer
- Private bedroom suite with ensuite bathroom accessible only from the bedroom
- Extensive cabinet storage that eliminates the “shove it under furniture” approach
- Permanent coastal installation rather than trailer-based mobility
- 12m x 4m dimensions (39 ft x 13 ft) providing 48 square meters of living space[1][2]
The design philosophy centers on refusing to accept what most people consider inevitable tiny house trade-offs. Owners who spent years in RVs and compact spaces wanted a permanent home that felt genuinely spacious rather than merely functional.[2]
Choose this approach if: You value single-level accessibility, need a full kitchen for actual cooking, or want separation between private and shared spaces. Avoid if: You need trailer mobility or have strict budget constraints under $100,000.
For those interested in broader compact living approaches, explore our guide on thriving in simplicity through tiny house community advantages.
How Does the Single-Level Design of the English Garden Maximize Living Space?
The English Garden’s single-level configuration creates continuous sight lines and openness that multi-level tiny houses can’t achieve. By eliminating vertical circulation space (stairs and ladders), the design reclaims approximately 15-20% more usable floor area.[2]
Spatial advantages:
- Uninterrupted flow from living area through kitchen to bedroom without level changes
- Strategic window placement floods the interior with natural light, making spaces feel larger
- Full-height ceilings throughout eliminate the cramped feeling of loft spaces
- Efficient room transitions without wasted hallway or stairwell space
- Accessible design suitable for all ages and mobility levels
The layout positions the living room centrally, with the kitchen on one side and bedroom suite on the opposite end. This separation creates functional zones while maintaining visual connection through the space. Large double glass doors in the living area extend the perceived boundaries beyond the physical walls.[1][2]
Common mistake: Assuming single-level means less total space. The English Garden’s 48 square meters actually exceeds many two-story tiny houses when you account for unusable loft areas and circulation space.
What Kitchen Features Does the English Garden by South Base Tiny Homes Include?
The kitchen in the English Garden operates as a genuine cooking space designed for people who prepare real meals, not just reheat takeout. This represents a significant departure from typical tiny house kitchens that prioritize space-saving over functionality.[2]
Complete kitchen specifications:
- Full oven beneath a gas-powered cooktop (not just a hot plate)
- Farmhouse-style sink with proper depth and basin size
- Refrigerator-freezer combination (not a mini-fridge)
- Breakfast counter accommodating two people comfortably
- Extensive cabinetry lining walls for actual storage capacity
- Counter space sufficient for meal preparation and appliances
The L-shaped layout maximizes work triangle efficiency while the breakfast bar creates a natural division between kitchen and living areas without walls. Cabinet storage extends to upper and lower levels, providing space for dishes, cookware, pantry items, and small appliances.[2]
Decision rule: If you cook meals from scratch more than twice weekly, this kitchen design justifies the investment. For occasional cooking, a simpler galley kitchen might suffice.
The gas cooktop connects to standard LPG bottles, making the home suitable for off-grid or rural coastal locations where natural gas lines aren’t available.[4]
How Is the Bedroom and Bathroom Configured in the English Garden Tiny House?
The bedroom-bathroom suite in the English Garden delivers genuine privacy through thoughtful spatial separation. The owners specifically requested the bathroom be accessible only from the bedroom, creating an ensuite arrangement uncommon in tiny houses.[1][2]
Bedroom features:
- Well-proportioned space accommodating a double bed
- Large wardrobes providing proper clothing storage
- Full standing height throughout (no sloped ceilings)
- Natural light from strategically placed windows
- Physical separation from living and kitchen areas
Bathroom specifications:
- Glass-enclosed shower with proper drainage
- Vanity sink with storage below
- Flushing toilet (not composting)
- Access only through bedroom for privacy
- Proper ventilation and moisture management
This configuration means guests using the living areas can’t access the bathroom, which some might view as a limitation. However, for the owners, this privacy was a primary design goal. The bathroom serves as a true ensuite rather than a shared facility.[1]
Edge case: If you plan to host overnight guests regularly, consider adding a second small powder room accessible from common areas, though this would require custom modifications.
What Construction Standards and Materials Define the English Garden?
South Base Tiny Homes builds the English Garden to exceed New Zealand Building Code requirements, with specific engineering for coastal and high wind zones. The company won the 2023 Tiny House Awards for Best Commercial Build, reflecting construction quality standards.[4]
Construction specifications:
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Wall Framing | Heavy-duty 4×2 H1.2 treated timber |
| Platform | Steel engineered base |
| Wall Insulation | R2.8 rating |
| Ceiling Insulation | R4.0 rating |
| Windows | Double-glazed, floor-to-ceiling in key areas |
| Exterior | Colorbond steel with timber cladding options |
| Roofing | Metal with cottage-style profile |
| Warranty | 5 years comprehensive |
The timber cladding exterior combines with metal roofing to create a British cottage aesthetic that honors the owners’ heritage while suiting New Zealand’s coastal environment. Engineered wood and steel resist moisture, salt air, and high winds better than standard residential construction.[2][4]
Material selection priorities:
- Eco-friendly stains and finishes throughout
- Sustainable, responsibly sourced timber
- Durable hardware rated for coastal conditions
- Low-maintenance exterior requiring minimal upkeep
The home includes full PS1 engineering certification, meaning it meets professional engineering standards for structural integrity and can be relocated if needed, despite being designed for permanent installation.[4]
How Does the English Garden Compare to Other South Base Tiny Homes Models?
South Base Tiny Homes offers several models, with the English Garden based on their Abel single-level platform. Understanding the model range helps buyers choose the right configuration.[1][4]
Model comparison:
| Model | Levels | Length | Bedrooms | Starting Price (NZD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Garden | Single | 12m | 1 | $230,000 |
| Abel | Single | 12m | 1 | $230,000 |
| Sophia | Single | 12m | 1 | $230,000 |
| MacKenzie | Two | 10m | 2 | Varies |
| Bespoke Base | Single | 12m | 1 | Custom |
The Abel and Sophia models share the same single-level platform as the English Garden but feature different interior layouts and aesthetic treatments. The MacKenzie offers two-level living with loft bedrooms for those who need multiple sleeping areas in a smaller footprint.[3][4]
Choose English Garden if: You want British cottage aesthetics, coastal installation, and ensuite bathroom privacy. Choose Abel if: You prefer open bathroom access and different interior finishes. Choose MacKenzie if: You need two bedrooms and accept loft-style sleeping.
The Bespoke Base model represents South Base’s custom design service, where architect Chris Pyemont works with clients to create fully personalized layouts. This option costs more but delivers exactly what owners envision.[3]
What Are the Costs and Practical Considerations for the English Garden?
The English Garden starts at approximately NZD $230,000 (roughly US$137,000), positioning it in the premium tiny house market. This price reflects architectural design, award-winning construction quality, and New Zealand’s higher building standards.[1]
Cost breakdown considerations:
- Base home: NZD $230,000
- Site preparation: $5,000-$15,000 (foundation, leveling)
- Utility connections: $3,000-$10,000 (water, power, septic)
- Transport: $2,000-$8,000 (if not built on-site)
- Customization: Variable based on material upgrades
- Consent/permits: $1,000-$5,000 depending on location
Ongoing costs:
- Property rates/taxes (if on owned land)
- Insurance (typically $800-$1,500 annually)
- Utilities (lower than standard homes due to size)
- Maintenance (minimal due to quality construction)
The permanently anchored installation means you need to own or lease land with appropriate zoning. New Zealand’s coastal areas have specific regulations about dwelling placement, setbacks from water, and environmental protections.[1]
Financing options: Some banks treat quality tiny houses as chattels (movable property) rather than real estate, which can complicate mortgage approval. Cash purchase or personal loans are more common financing routes.
Common mistake: Underestimating total project costs. Budget an additional 20-30% beyond the base home price for site work, connections, and unexpected expenses.
Who Is the English Garden by South Base Tiny Homes Best Suited For?
The English Garden serves specific buyer profiles who prioritize quality and accessibility over maximum space efficiency or mobility. Understanding whether this model aligns with your lifestyle prevents expensive mismatches.[2]
Ideal owners:
- Downsizers transitioning from larger homes who won’t accept cramped quarters
- Coastal lifestyle seekers wanting permanent beachside or rural living
- Accessibility-focused buyers who can’t navigate loft ladders
- Couples who cook regularly and value kitchen functionality
- Heritage enthusiasts drawn to British cottage aesthetics
- Quality-conscious buyers willing to invest in superior construction
Not ideal for:
- Mobile tiny house enthusiasts needing trailer-based relocation
- Budget-constrained buyers with under $150,000 total budget
- Large families requiring multiple bedrooms
- Urban dwellers in areas with strict tiny house zoning
- DIY builders wanting hands-on construction involvement
Age and mobility considerations: The single-level design makes the English Garden suitable for aging-in-place scenarios where stairs become challenging. The wide doorways and open layout accommodate mobility aids if needed in the future.
The owners of this specific English Garden spent seven years traveling in an RV before commissioning their permanent home. They wanted coastal living without the compromises they’d accepted during mobile years.[2]
How Does the English Garden Address Common Tiny House Complaints?
Traditional tiny house living generates consistent complaints about specific pain points. The English Garden’s design directly addresses these common frustrations.[2]
Problem-solution matrix:
| Common Complaint | English Garden Solution |
|---|---|
| Climbing to bed every night | Single-level bedroom with double bed |
| Inadequate cooking space | Full kitchen with oven, proper appliances |
| Insufficient storage | Extensive cabinetry throughout |
| Lack of privacy | Ensuite bathroom, separated bedroom |
| Cramped feeling | 48 sqm with high ceilings, large windows |
| Poor resale value | Award-winning builder, premium materials |
| Difficult aging-in-place | Accessible single-level design |
Specific design responses:
- Headroom issues: Full standing height everywhere eliminates crouching in lofts
- Limited entertaining: Open living area and breakfast bar accommodate guests
- Appliance compromises: Real refrigerator, oven, and cooktop instead of mini versions
- Bathroom access: Ensuite privacy rather than shared facility
- Natural light: Strategic window placement prevents cave-like interiors
Edge case: The ensuite bathroom configuration means overnight guests can’t easily access facilities without entering the bedroom. Some owners add a small outdoor shower or portable toilet for guest use.
The permanent installation addresses another complaint about tiny house living: constant worry about towing safety, tire maintenance, and finding legal parking. Once anchored, the English Garden becomes a true home rather than a vehicle.[1]
What Zoning and Legal Considerations Apply to the English Garden in New Zealand?
Installing a permanent tiny house in New Zealand requires navigating specific regulatory frameworks that vary by region and district. The English Garden’s coastal location adds environmental protection layers.[1]
Key regulatory areas:
- District zoning: Verify the property allows residential dwellings of this size
- Building consent: Required for permanent structures, even tiny houses
- Resource consent: May be needed for coastal or environmentally sensitive areas
- Setback requirements: Distance from property boundaries, water bodies
- Height restrictions: Usually not an issue for single-level designs
- Wastewater disposal: Septic system or connection to municipal sewer
- Stormwater management: Runoff control in coastal areas
New Zealand-specific considerations:
South Base Tiny Homes provides full engineering certification (PS1) and builds to NZ Building Code standards, which helps with consent applications. However, owners must still obtain appropriate permits for their specific site.[4]
Common mistake: Assuming “tiny house” means exemption from building codes. In New Zealand, any permanent dwelling requires proper consents regardless of size.
Coastal Environmental Protection Act implications: Properties near coastlines may have additional restrictions on building placement, vegetation removal, and visual impact. Consult local councils early in the planning process.
For those considering alternative housing approaches in different regions, understanding local community dynamics can provide valuable context.
FAQ
How long does it take to build an English Garden tiny house?
Construction typically takes 12-16 weeks from order confirmation to completion, depending on customization level and current build queue. South Base Tiny Homes builds in Nelson, New Zealand, with site delivery adding 1-2 weeks.[4]
Can the English Garden be moved after installation?
Yes, despite being designed for permanent placement, the home includes PS1 engineering certification allowing relocation. However, moving requires professional transport and costs $5,000-$15,000 depending on distance.[4]
What utilities does the English Garden require?
The home needs standard electrical connection (240V), water supply (municipal or tank), and wastewater disposal (septic or sewer). The gas cooktop uses LPG bottles. Solar panels can be added for off-grid capability.[4]
Is the English Garden suitable for cold climates?
With R2.8 wall and R4.0 ceiling insulation plus double-glazed windows, the home handles New Zealand’s temperate climate well. For colder regions, additional insulation and heating capacity may be needed.[4]
Can I customize the English Garden layout?
South Base Tiny Homes offers customization through their Bespoke service. Changes to the base Abel/English Garden design include different finishes, modified layouts, and upgraded appliances, with costs varying by scope.[3]
What’s the difference between English Garden and Abel models?
Both use the same 12m single-level platform. The English Garden features British cottage aesthetics, timber cladding, and ensuite bathroom configuration. The Abel offers different interior finishes and open bathroom access.[1][3]
Does the English Garden qualify as a permanent residence?
In New Zealand, with proper building and resource consents, yes. However, financing and insurance may treat it as a chattel rather than real property. Consult local authorities about specific zoning.[1]
What warranty coverage does South Base Tiny Homes provide?
All homes include a comprehensive 5-year warranty covering structural elements, weatherproofing, and major systems. This exceeds typical tiny house builder warranties of 1-2 years.[4]
Can the English Garden connect to standard utilities?
Yes, the home uses conventional electrical, plumbing, and gas connections compatible with New Zealand standards. No special utility adaptations are required for grid-connected sites.[4]
What’s the maximum occupancy for the English Garden?
The single bedroom with double bed suits two adults comfortably. The breakfast bar seats two, and the living area accommodates 4-5 people for entertaining. Overnight guests require alternative sleeping arrangements.[1][2]
How does the English Garden handle coastal weather conditions?
Built specifically for New Zealand’s coastal and high wind zones, the home features engineered steel platform, heavy-duty timber framing, and Colorbond steel exterior rated for salt air and wind exposure.[4]
What’s included in the base price of NZD $230,000?
The price covers the complete home with standard finishes, all appliances, fixtures, and engineering certification. Not included: site preparation, utility connections, transport, permits, or customization upgrades.[1]
Key Takeaways
- The English Garden by South Base Tiny Homes eliminates traditional tiny house compromises through complete single-level design with no lofts or ladders
- Dimensions of 12m x 4m (39 ft x 13 ft) provide 48 square meters of genuinely spacious apartment-style living
- Full kitchen facilities include oven, gas cooktop, proper refrigerator-freezer, farmhouse sink, and extensive storage—designed for actual cooking
- Private bedroom-bathroom suite with ensuite access delivers separation and privacy uncommon in compact homes
- British cottage aesthetics blend timber cladding and metal roofing for heritage-inspired coastal living
- Award-winning construction by architect Chris Pyemont meets New Zealand Building Code and coastal wind zone standards
- 5-year warranty and PS1 engineering certification ensure quality and enable future relocation if needed
- Starting price of NZD $230,000 (US$137,000) positions this as premium tiny house living without traditional sacrifices
- Permanent coastal installation requires appropriate land ownership or lease with proper zoning and consents
- Ideal for downsizers, couples, and accessibility-focused buyers who prioritize quality and functionality over maximum space efficiency
Conclusion
The English Garden by South Base Tiny Homes represents a fundamental rethinking of what compact living can deliver. By refusing to accept the ladders, cramped kitchens, and storage shortages that define most tiny houses, this 12-meter coastal dwelling proves apartment-quality living fits within a modest footprint.
For buyers considering this model, the decision centers on priorities. If you value accessibility, cooking functionality, and genuine privacy over maximum space efficiency or trailer mobility, the English Garden delivers without compromise. The single-level layout eliminates the physical challenges of loft living while the full kitchen and ensuite bathroom provide amenities typically sacrificed in compact homes.
Next steps for interested buyers:
- Assess your land situation: Verify you have or can acquire appropriately zoned coastal or rural property
- Budget comprehensively: Account for the $230,000 base price plus 20-30% for site work, utilities, and permits
- Contact South Base Tiny Homes: Discuss customization options and current build timeline at southbasehomes.com
- Review local regulations: Consult your district council about building and resource consent requirements
- Consider financing: Explore personal loan options if mortgage financing proves difficult
- Visit completed homes: Request to tour the English Garden or similar models to experience the space firsthand
The English Garden won’t suit everyone. Budget-conscious buyers, those needing mobility, or families requiring multiple bedrooms should explore other options. But for couples or individuals ready to invest in quality coastal living without traditional tiny house trade-offs, this New Zealand design offers a compelling blueprint for comfortable compact living in 2026.
The broader tiny house movement continues evolving beyond its mobile, ultra-minimal origins. Models like the English Garden demonstrate that “tiny” doesn’t require sacrificing the amenities and accessibility that make a house feel like home. As construction quality improves and designs mature, expect more builders to follow South Base’s lead in rejecting unnecessary compromises.
References
[1] Apartment-sized English Garden tiny house delivers spacious small living for two – https://newatlas.com/tiny-houses/english-garden-south-base-tiny-homes/
[2] This New Zealand Tiny House Delivers Apartment-Sized Living Without the Usual Compromises – https://www.yankodesign.com/2026/02/17/this-new-zealand-tiny-house-delivers-apartment-sized-living-without-the-usual-compromises/
[3] South Base Homes | Tiny Homes, Nelson To Christchurch, Wellington, Dunedin and more – https://www.southbasehomes.com/
[4] Spacious tiny house puts down roots with apartment-sized living – https://newatlas.com/tiny-houses/bespoke-base-south-base-homes/
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