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How is it constructed?
The chassis of the shepherd hut is constructed from sustainable structural pine, and the floor substrate is pine ply. The walls can be constructed in a similar way to timber frame buildings, but Matchett opts to use the same panel as for walk-in cold stores. The beauty of these panels is that they comply with SABS structural regulations and have a very high insulation value. This helps with heating and cooling while also dampening sound, keeping the interior private. The corrugated iron roof structure is supported by in-house designed roof trusses and batons as stringers, while ceilings and insulation are installed accordingly. The interiors are cladded with a conventional 9mm rhino board, skimmed and painted to spec.
The unit sleeps six people. Matchett explains,“ The children in the owner’ s family are still young, so currently they fit upstairs on the mezzanine quite easily. It does get a bit tight if adults sleep upstairs, but four( preferably three) would be ideal( the platform is 2m x 2.3m). The parents in the family sleep on the queen bed downstairs.”
The standard units come in three sizes 3 x 2.4m, 4.5 x 2.4m, and 6 x 2.4m. These can be designed on a custom basis, but they are typically designed for two adults in a main bed, with a sitting area, kitchenette, and shower closet adjacent. This can be adapted to accommodate different family requirements or the number of people needing bed space.
“ Though there were some breaks in between, this house took about nine weeks to construct. The standard units can be constructed in less time; however, it is better to work with a loose timeframe to allow for unforeseen setbacks or material shortages.
“ What is great about this project is that my client, Maria, chose to be very involved in the process and set about procuring all the windows, doors and interior furnishings herself – and some of them are reused items,” he concludes.
Ryan Matchett can be contacted at matchett. ryan @ gmail. com or by cell 076 094 4357.
40 autumn 2026 | www. tobuild. co. za