Bakers Retreat Is a Beautiful Modern-Classic Tiny Home With a Touch of Luxury

These days, tiny homes are so sophisticated, elegant, and even smart (technology-wise) that it can be easy to forget that they were initially simple and rugged cabins furnished for basic accommodation. Today, it makes perfect sense to see a tiny home as a dream home, even for small families. Those who have witnessed this tremendous and fast evolution are some of the best equipped to understand what it takes to turn a dwelling on wheels into a real home.

One of them is the Australian family who owns and operates Highlands Tiny Homes. The company is one of the oldest in the field, founded more than twenty years ago. However, the owner's experience in construction goes much further than that: Michael had been operating a successful building company for more than 40 years at the time; he saw the potential of the tiny living movement and expanded his operations. A few years ago, Michael's eldest son, Matthew, joined the business. Together, they continue to offer solid and modern tiny homes, as well as the trailers they are built on.

The brand's versatile line offers models ranging in size from 4.8 meters/15.7 feet to 7.8 meters/26 feet. Plus, future owners can opt for either standard, deluxe, or deluxe+ finishes for a truly personalized abode that will best suit their needs. The Bakers Retreat is one of the more spacious models, boasting a single-loft layout. At 7.2 meters (23.6 feet), it's big enough to incorporate all the standard living spaces, including a beautiful classic-style kitchen, and it's perfect for couples.

The Bakers Retreat stands out right away due to the modern-rustic exterior that gives it a European or North American look compared to the typical Aussie style. The Western Red Cedar adds this unusual touch for an Aussie home, while the Colorbond- cladded walls, roof, and guttering balance it out with a more modern look. The interior matches this modern-classic style with beautiful woodwork, natural textures, and understated elegance.

The solid timber countertops in a rich, dark shade catch the eye immediately. They add contrast to the minimalist-style kitchen design with all-white cabinets. These white gloss cabinets provide enough storage to rival a standard kitchen. On one of the walls, the countertop features a perpendicular extension designed to double as a built-in breakfast bar. Underneath, an additional white cabinet facing the lounge area provides easy-to-reach storage for the hallway/entrance area.

A two-burner gas cooktop and an electric oven are part of the appliance arsenal, beautifully incorporated for a seamless look. Windows on each side provide sufficient sunlight and proper airflow while also visually opening the kitchen towards the outside. A compact overhead cupboard and an ultra-compact pantry were added next to the bathroom – one of the goals was to use every inch of available space to add amenities while maintaining a balanced, clutter-free style.

Part of the Bakers Retreat's modern-classic elegance is the interesting staircase design; it's not a typical staircase, nor is it a basic ladder, but a combination of both. It looks like the enhanced version of a fixed ladder, with wide treads that match the timber countertops and a solid black structure for extra safety and reliability. A matching handrail connects to the loft safety railing with strings instead of a solid block panel. This particular design doesn't block the view, which makes the room feel more modern and open.

Large windows, similar to the ones downstairs, keep the bedroom bright and sunny. A similar window sits above the custom-built sofa bench in the lounge area, also brightening up that entire section. The built-in bench comes with high-quality cushions and hidden storage underneath. With no formal separation between the lounge and the kitchen, this entire section is great for socializing, turning the breakfast bar into a cool snack bar.

Behind the space-saving pocked door, the bathroom hides a modern design with standard equipment and stylish accents. The shower cabin features fully-tiled flooring, and a large mirror matches the clean, modern aesthetics. Standard features include a reverse-cycle air conditioner, an instant gas hot water system, and lighting throughout. Pricing starts at AUD 89,000 ($59,200), and the Bakers Retreat comes with a seven-year structural warranty for both the home and the trailer.

Thanks to high-quality finishes and timeless style, the Bakers Retreat is a modern-classic beauty that will pass the test of time. The elegant aesthetic and carefully added amenities make it equally suitable for long-term accommodation or Airbnb-type hospitality. Either way, it offers the warmth and comfort of a cozy home with the mobility and affordability of a compact habitat.