These Tiny Box Cabins Bring Community to the Outback in Tasmania

In most of North America we call them cabins. Maybe cottages. In New Zealand, it’s a bach. And Australia and Tasmania, a bush shack, or hut. Whatever you call it, a modest shelter surrounded by remote nature is a common dream for many around the world. Ourselves very much included.

Though with remoteness comes the question of community. This Tasmanian cabin compound solves that to a degree, as each of the three little cube cabins is owned by a different family in a group of friends.

Designed by Taylor and Hinds architects drawing inspiration from the minimalist shack culture that arose in the area during the 1950s, the project directly aims to plant visitors among the landscape.

Each of the three is positioned towards a unique geographical feature, pointing its massive windows, patio, and general layout—and thus inhabitants’ attention—outward into the bush and away from other manmade structures. Elevated walkways join each, creating the feeling of connectivity among the wilderness.

Stark grey and black exteriors allow for some degree of diffusion among the landscape, while warm brass, grey stone, and rich raw wood paneling enlighten the interior. Wood fired fireplaces can be found in each of the open plan cabins. Here, it’s all about materiality, inside and out. And we can’t argue one bit with it.