New Zealand Couple's Car Garage So Nice It Became Their Home

Sometimes the best homes are the ones you never planned to live in.

When Shane and Georgina Bruhns bought four hectares in Matakana, New Zealand in 2015, they had it all figured out. They'd build a temporary barn for Shane's car collection and some guest overflow while they planned their real home. Then they could finally downsize from their current place next door.

But designer Mike Petre had other ideas. The barn he created was so stunning that nine years later, the couple is still living in it.

"When people come and stay, or see it for the first time, it reminds you of that 'wow' factor," Georgina says. "Seeing their response makes you realize just how lucky you are."

Construction didn't start until 2019, and COVID delays pushed completion into 2020. Shane describes the process as "organic," with Mike making daily design decisions alongside them since they lived right next door.

The result feels more art gallery than garage. The 236-square-meter barn features ceilings soaring from 2.7 to 6 meters high. A mezzanine level adds extra living and work space above the car collection below.

Every detail tells a story. Timber from native New Zealand trees like tōtara, macrocarpa, and eucalyptus lines the interior, filling rooms with a warm, woody aroma. Industrial lighting from a 1930s factory hangs overhead. Even the loft windows came reclaimed from an old school.

Shane calls it "a little bit of a 'his and hers.'" The space blends his industrial shed vibe with luxury finishes that give it beauty and finesse.

Outside, the property stretches across rolling hills dotted with vegetable beds, an orchard, and a glasshouse. Georgina says watching sunrise mist settle in the valley below feels magical, especially with the barn's massive door open.

The land where their "real" house was supposed to sit? Cattle from a neighboring farm graze there now.

Sunny's Take

After years of accidentally perfect living, the Bruhns are ready for their next chapter. They want more time at their beach property up north and freedom to travel. It's bittersweet leaving those expansive valley views behind.

But their hope is simple: that whoever buys their beloved barn will love it just as much, maybe even make it more special.

Sometimes life's detours become the destination.

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