minima is a compact 20 sqm living space made from prefabricated CLT

a small yet beautifully crafted space that can be used for a variety of functions. that’s what sydney-based architecture studio TRIAS has achieved with ‘minima’, a 20 sqm timber module that brings together clever space and storage solutions. shown here as a ‘tiny house’, TRIAS has designed different layouts so minima can be used as a mini apartment, studio or home office.

images by clinton weaver | @_clintonweaver

minima is part of TRIAS‘ vision to democratize architecturally designed homes. to achieve this goal, the project team created minima to be inherently flexible, meaning that the same basic design can find a home in an infinite number of gardens, backyards and rural properties. the layout can then be adapted to suit different clients and a second module can even be added to provide more space. 

in the ‘tiny house’ configuration, the layout includes a kitchen, bathroom, and flexible living and sleeping spaces. minima can be entered from two points, with wide doors to one side and a smaller access door to the other. the main set of doors stack back entirely, making the central room feel generously connected to the outdoors.

with just 20 sqm, TRIAS had to be smart with space. to overcome its modest size, minima is planned as series of zones. the kitchen and shower room are kept to one side while the sleeping and living accommodation occupies the main space. built-in storage wraps around this area, resulting in an open, flexible space in the middle.

to realize minima, TRIAS worked with FABPREFAB, a specialist in modular and prefabricated buildings. prefabricated cross laminated timber (CLT) was chosen as the construction material for its economic, structural and environmental benefits. CLT allows for a shortened construction period and reduced waste; the process of ‘cross laminating’ the panels gives each element greater structural strength and integrity; and manufacturers can rely on fast-growth timbers, a process that helps with carbon capture and sequestration.

CLT panels build the walls, floor and roof of each structure. inside, the natural wood finish envelops inhabitants in a warm, welcoming environment, and all the paints and coatings use low volatile organic compound (VOC). in essence, minima proposes a low-impact kind of living without compromising on quality. 

project info:

name: minima

location: somersby, NSW, australia

architect: TRIAS | @trias.studio

project team: casey bryant, jonathon donnelly, jennifer mcmaster

builder: FABPREFAB | @fab.prefab

managing director: ed callanan

structural engineering: SDA structures | @sdastructures

area: 20 sqm (215.28 sqft)

year: 2020

photography: clinton weaver | @_clintonweaver