Exterior of Ao Marama Retreat by Common Space.

A Remote Cabin in New Zealand Celebrates Affordable Materials and Life’s Simple Pleasures

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The retreat sits on an exposed high point, giving it views of the forest, the Bay of Plenty coastline, and the city lights of Tauranga in the distance. "This exposure is part of what causes strong winds to buffet it," says architect Claire Natush. "The builders had to strap down any materials that arrived on-site before they blew away."