With gardens teeming with life and a home that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor spaces, Fabian Low invites us into his world of simplicity and flow.
Fabian's journey into tiny house living was driven by a desire to minimise his environmental impact and own a place in a real estate market that often feels out of reach. As you step into his tiny house, the first thing that catches your attention is the lush garden surrounding it. "The gardens here really are beautiful," Fabian’s background in landscape architecture is where he learned the importance of understated design and the harmony it brings when seamlessly integrated with the surroundings.
Fabian has since had a change of career to become a mental health counsellor, working in a meaningful and profound way to impact people's lives.
As a way of transition from outdoors to indoors, Fabian has created a stunning covered outdoor entertainment area. The combination of clear plastic café screens and textured curtains allow for various configurations to create different atmospheres depending on the weather and the occasion.
Returning our attention to the house, we admire the ingenious design that connects the indoor and outdoor spaces effortlessly. Fabian's love for Tai Chi is reflected in the house's layout, where the flow and openness facilitate his practice. An outdoor kitchen, strategically positioned to face guests, allows him to cook aromatic dishes while enjoying their company.
Entering the tiny house, we find ourselves surrounded by a living, breathing garden. Fabian's loft, dedicated entirely to plants, evokes a sense of tranquillity and oneness with nature. It serves as a space for meditation, reading, or simply unwinding. The integration of nature into his home reflects Fabian's enthusiasm for gardening, as he enjoys bringing the outdoors inside.
The interior of the tiny house exudes spaciousness, defying its compact size. Fabian skilfully balances functionality and aesthetics in every detail. The high-tech fireplace adds warmth and ambience to the living space, complementing the carefully crafted lighting that sets the mood for different occasions.
Moving on to the kitchen, it can only be described as a chef's paradise. Fabian's love of cooking shines through in the way he showcases his spacious cooking area, complete with a four-burner hob, bench space galore and ample storage. The design of the storage shelves, including the unique corner cupboards, reflects his meticulous attention to detail and the art of maximising space.
Continuing our exploration, we arrive at the multifunctional living room. Fabian ingeniously combines a bamboo dining table with a futon that transforms into two single beds. This flexibility allows for various activities, from dining to relaxation, all within a well-defined space. The inclusion of a projector adds another layer of versatility, enabling cosy movie nights with friends.
Fabian's passion for music comes alive with the collection of instruments displayed in the living room. His love for jamming and improvisational music fills the space with energy and creativity. The fusion of styles and cultural elements throughout the house reflects Fabian's desire to honour his Chinese heritage while embracing his identity as a New Zealander.
Behind a curtain, a hidden world unfolds. The bathroom, walk-in wardrobe, and staircase to the loft form a more private area of the tiny house. Starting with the sink, it serves as the entry point into the bathroom area. Fabian has cleverly separated the vanity from the toilet and shower, ensuring that multiple people can use the space simultaneously without inconvenience. This design choice allows guests to access the sink for hand-washing while maintaining privacy for those using the toilet or shower.
As we step into the bathroom, we notice a good-sized shower and a macerating toilet connected to a septic system. The macerating toilet is a luxurious addition, providing convenience and comfort, especially when hosting guests.
The clever use of a mirror in the closet creates an illusion of more space, making it feel open and inviting. Fabian's attention to detail is evident in the ample storage provided, ensuring that all clothing and personal belongings have their designated place.
Heading upstairs, Fabian has created ‘The Den’—a cosy and intimate space designed for relaxation. Fabian's creative touch is immediately apparent with the furry fabric wall, which adds texture and warmth to the room. The use of soft materials further enhances the cosy atmosphere, creating a haven for quiet moments. The small window, when complemented by the blinds, allows for precise control of natural light, making the space calming and soothing.
Fabian has made the most of the limited space in the den by incorporating a dual purpose feature—a projector screen. When the screen is lowered, the den transforms into a mini home theatre, offering a delightful escape for a relaxing evening. Fabian expresses his preference for small and intimate sleeping arrangements, as it aligns with his personal taste and desire for cosiness.
Living in his tiny house for over a year, Fabian describes it as his retreat, a place where he feels a sense of wholeness and tranquillity. As someone who has travelled extensively and moved frequently, he cherishes the stability and grounding his tiny house provides. Fabian's philosophy of embracing spontaneity and going with the flow guides his outlook on the future, leaving room for unexpected adventures and opportunities.
Fabian's tiny house journey reflects his resourcefulness, creativity, and an ongoing commitment to creating a home that embodies his true self.
