Dewi is Welsh, and a craftsman. Jen a local Kiwi, and host of the housewithnonails Boutique Bed & Breakfast. This unique, handcrafted, rustic, eco friendly homestead graces the horizon along the new Te Arohoa to Matamata section of the Hauraki Rail Trail.
Armed with a knowledge of rare ancient building methods, mallet and chisel, Dewi built his barn using local trees felled by cyclone Bola. The trees later milled into beams by a local farmer, and crafted using traditional joinery with hand hewn pegs whittled out of oak on site.
The special day came bringing family and friends together to assist with the construction of the hand built home. A traditional barn raising day taking place on the field beneath the Kaimai ranges, seeing the barn framework erected in one piece.
The local community celebrated that night with a feast and dancing beneath the stars on the open pad. The finished home tells a story of resourcefulness, where a local couple embarked upon their dream to live in the countryside.
The house is now host to an international audience of visitors from all over the world, providing a truly luxury experience. Sitting quietly in its beautiful location on the rural lane of Waghorn Road, Wardville, the totally handcrafted barn is unlike any other homestay in New Zealand.
The home's special exterior is matched equally by the complementary natural interior, with materials and re-purposing of local objects with a history evident. The house features wooden plank and parquet flooring, a large glass solarium, and various hand forged ironworks.
Using a traditional lime render and red clay from Waihi has created beautiful texture for the walls. Stone gathered from the hills in Paeroa now houses an Inglenook fireplace together with a solid fuel cooker, reminiscent of Dewi’s country of origin, Wales.
A large native Totara mantel sits alongside an old copper sink set in cement slab benches. A chestnut dresser, clawfoot bath, leather suites and candlelight emanating country chic for guests relaxing in the mezzanine nook, or loft with kingsize bed and expansive views.
On arrival guests are welcomed by an inviting porch. The bold oak door and antique Welsh knocker hinting at the experience awaiting. A unique home full of character and personality, and a pure reflection of hosts Jen and Dewi, and their burgeoning efforts to share their space with strangers who depart as friends.
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