Tiny House, Big Shed - An Automated Farm | Smart Home Inspiration

In the rugged beauty of New Zealand, where mountains meet the sea, a vision of off-grid living has been realised — a project that marries the raw charm of nature with the sophistication of modern technology. This remarkable undertaking by Automation Associates is known as ‘Tiny House, Big Shed - An Automated Farm’. This unique integration showcases the transformative power of smart home technology, deftly interwoven with the architectural elegance envisioned by Crosson Architects, the meticulous craftsmanship of builder Renovation Masters, and the aesthetic finesse of interior designer Matter.

The project’s origin is a tribute to the client’s profound connection to both the land and the world of electronics. An eight-bay shed has been constructed on this beachside farm, its monolithic rectangular form echoing the aesthetic of a 16-pin integrated circuit, a nod to the client’s background. This architectural marvel, with its precise lines and minimalist grandeur, serves as a temporary abode in Bay 8 — a tiny home destined to become guest accommodation once the main house is constructed. The ingenious use of red-green-blue-cool white (RGBCW) strip lighting throughout the shed draws parallels to printed circuit board traces, seamlessly blending technology with design.

Living off-grid demands a nuanced approach to power management, a challenge Automation Associates met with ingenuity and foresight. The site’s remote location required a renewable energy (RE) system capable of enduring New Zealand’s temperamental weather. By integrating the RE system with the automation setup, the client's daily routines are effortlessly adjusted based on the system’s state of charge (SOC). This seamless interaction between systems is designed to maintain simplicity for both residents and future guests, eliminating the need for cluttered displays and ensuring intuitive control.

Automation Associates faced spatial challenges within Bay 8’s compact 6x10m dimensions, necessitating clever product selection and placement. Even the structural supports required coordination with a structural engineer to accommodate essential controls. This careful orchestration extended to audio-visual elements, where the high ceilings and glass walls posed significant design obstacles. By pre-wiring for future installations and judiciously managing power loads, Automation Associates ensured that the system remains adaptable, capable of expanding without compromising current functionality.

This integration extends beyond the confines of Bay 8, encompassing the old shack and the wider farm’s subsystems. Automation simplifies complex operations, embodying a philosophy of graceful, non-intrusive technology. From an automated watering system that intelligently adjusts based on weather and usage, to a heat recovery and ventilation system (HRV) that optimises warmth in winter, every detail is thoughtfully designed. The Velux roof windows, for example, automatically open to regulate temperature, enhancing indoor air quality while conserving energy.

The client’s desire for an off-grid haven did not preclude modern comforts. Automation Associates, in collaboration with Plug In Power, devised solutions that ensure minimal reliance on generators, maximising the efficacy of the RE system. High colour rendering index (CRI) warm white and RGBCW LED strips provide full spectrum control, enhancing both the aesthetic and health benefits of the lighting. Even the underfloor heating system is optimised to make the most of the available energy, while the HRV system harnesses warm air from upstairs to heat lower rooms.

Security and convenience are seamlessly integrated into the system. From gate controls triggered by vehicle detection to extensive irrigation management, the automation ensures that every aspect of farm life is under control, whether the client is on-site or away. The intelligent water management system, for instance, uses real-time data to adjust irrigation schedules and monitor tank levels, ensuring optimal water usage.

In ‘Tiny House, Big Shed - An Automated Farm’, Automation Associates has crafted more than just an off-grid retreat; they have created a dynamic interplay of technology and nature, where every element harmonises to enhance the living experience. This project is an embodiment of how forward-thinking design can integrate with advanced automation to forge environments that are not only sustainable but also deeply resonant with their natural settings.