Project Timber: Riverhead Garage Project

Riverhead Garage - A Study in Restraint and Intention

Tucked along the main road into Riverhead, this small but expressive structure is a clear demonstration of what happens when careful detailing, refined material choices, and intentional design come together.

This 75m² garage is not a loud statement — and yet, it speaks volumes. Its sharp lines, rhythmically set cladding, and moody, textural finish are evidence of a builder who knows how to let the materials do the talking.

“You might’ve heard people say less is more. But the complexity of it all is in the simple part, and how far to strip it back to the basic elements. Taking your time to do a great job is always worth it.” - Matt Nicholls

For this project, every decision was really considered, with long-term performance and visual impact front of mind. The exterior cladding features JSC’s Thermally Modified Timber (TMT) Taxon, selected for its refined grain and ability to hold deep tones over time. Finished in JSC Scumble Suede Wood Oil, the coating adds tonal depth while supporting UV protection and longer recoating intervals - a key consideration for owner-builder Matt Nicholls of Ryse Construction.

Matt approached cladding selection with intention - putting multiple cladding product samples through a six-month test to see how each performed in real-world conditions. The JSC TMT sample stood out, not just for its natural aesthetic, but for its consistency and performance in New Zealand’s ever-changing climate.

“Most of the samples looked like they had been through a washing machine and the TMT looked brand new without any colour fading. It was an easy choice.” - Matt

But the success of this build doesn’t rest solely on the cladding. It’s the approach that makes the difference - the choice to pause, refine, and remove anything unnecessary. To trust the material, and let it breathe.

Simple elegance + clean quality carpentry

This isn’t just a garage. It’s a design-led solution grounded in intention, where the craftsmanship speaks louder than size or scale. And it’s a standout example of how material integrity, patience, and clear thinking can shape something lasting.

 Want the full story?
Download the full Project Timber feature to explore the Riverhead Garage and gain insight into the process, mindset, and timber that shaped it.

Looking for more design flexibility?
Explore our Thermally Modified Timber offerings – featuring species like Taxon, Taiga, Amba, and our latest addition - ThermoPine, along with coatings, and profiles created to support expressive design and long-term performance.