Shaye Boddington is transforming the perception of tiny homes by blending space efficiency with luxury, carving out a niche in the tiny house movement.
Catering to a diverse clientele – from single parents to retirees – Shaye’s Tiny Homes, under 60m², offer not just downsizing but a liberating lifestyle. “We’re not the cheapest in town, because we pride ourselves on high-quality design and finishes,” she says.
Many retirees, in particular, are selling their large properties and investing in Shaye’s homes for simpler, clutter-free living without sacrificing quality or comfort. “It’s important that they still live in a house that they are proud of,” says Shaye.
Far from being a minimalist’s retreat, these tiny homes cater to those looking for high-quality living on a smaller scale. Tailored finishes like underfloor heating, expansive kitchens, and even built-in spas prove that tiny living doesn’t mean compromising on luxury. Today, her designs are licensed globally, resonating with homeowners from New Zealand to the USA and beyond.
What sets Shaye’s designs apart is her groundbreaking full-height mezzanine walkways, allowing for spacious movement in lofted areas – an innovation now adopted by tiny house builders worldwide. The homes are constructed with quality materials and while most designs are on wheels, there are also more permanent options. Shaye’s clients enjoy creative spaces that suit their lifestyle and preferences, and for many, these homes represent the perfect balance between downsizing and maintaining a beautiful, functional space.
A perfect example of the appeal of tiny living is Shaye’s parents, Sheila and Noel, who now reside in one of her homes and are also involved in the business. “We decided to go tiny, and now we live on a beautiful lifestyle block,” says Sheila. “It’s easy to keep clean, we can lock up and leave whenever we want, and we’ve freed up cash to do fun things in our old age. Even if we won the lottery, we’d still choose to live tiny.”
From retirees to single parents, Shaye’s Tiny Homes prove that downsizing doesn’t mean giving up on a dream home – it’s about reimagining what a home can be. For those seeking financial freedom, simplicity, or sustainability, these homes offer a thoughtful, high-quality alternative that perfectly balances elegance and practicality.
WORDS — MILLY NOLAN
