The Essence of a Japanese Tiny Retreat
The Essence of Japanese Craftsmanship
A refined sanctuary where compact living (tiny house) meets timeless elegance. Designed by Robert Rolls, the Ginkgo Pod draws inspiration from the ginkgo tree’s resilient beauty, blending Japanese precision with Australian ingenuity for a space of subtle sophistication.
Ginkgo Pod Overview
Ginkgo Pod Tour by Robert Rolls
Inspired by Nature and Tradition
Rooted in the ginkgo tree’s palette of textures and tones, the Ginkgo Pod embodies Japanese principles of mindful space utilisation, intricate detailing, and multifunctional design. Robert Rolls’ deep affinity for Japan informs every element, merging artisanal techniques with modern Australian building expertise to create a harmonious retreat.
Seamless Functionality
- Open-Plan Versatility: Shoji screens and a rotating island bench allow effortless reconfiguration, adapting the space for dining, lounging, or rest.
- Artisan Craftsmanship: Handcrafted elements, including custom cabinetry, timber pedestal basins, and integrated joinery, ensure precision and durability.
- Multi-Purpose Living: A hidden bathroom, efficient kitchen, and traditional futon bedroom maximize utility without compromising serenity.
Explore the details
Immerse yourself in the Ginkgo Pod’s understated luxury through our curated photography. From exteriors to intimate interior moments, each image captures the essence of refined compact living.
About the Creator
With over three decades of expertise, Robert Rolls founded First Impressions Projects to elevate design and construction. His lifelong connection to Japanese culture drives innovative projects like the Ginkgo Pod, where bespoke artisan products from in-house joinery bring visions to life.
Blending worlds for spaces that inspire tranquility.
Experience It Yourself
Photography offers a glimpse, but a personal tour reveals the true artistry—perhaps accompanied by a sake tasting. Contact us to arrange a viewing at our Mornington location.
Ginkgo Pod Specifications
Dimensions
Length – 11.0m
Width – 3.5m
Height – 3.5m
External Finishes
Cladding – Monument matt custom cassette panels
Windows – Aluminium double-glazed
Roof – Colorbond Monument
Skylight – custom double-glazed unit
Flooring
Main kitchen/lounge floor – engineered timber flooring
Bedroom/tatami room – Japanese tatami
Bathroom – ceramic tatami tiles
Walls
Kitchen/lounge/bedroom/tatami room – custom wallpaper
Kitchen/lounge – custom mirror
Bathroom – custom Japanese tiles
Ceilings
Kitchen/lounge/bedroom/tatami room – custom wallpaper
Bathroom – custom mirror and skylight
Joinery
Custom timber finish kitchen cabinets
Stone – custom kitchen stone bench tops with mitred
edge detail
Custom timber finish robe cabinets
Custom pivot island bench
Joinery
Custom shoji screens and tracks in Tasmanian oak
Fixtures
Cook top – AEG down draft
Oven – AEG combi
Warming draw – AEG
Dishwasher – Miele integrated
Fridge – Artusi integrated
Pedestal basin – timber custom
WC – Toto
Lighting
Ceiling – custom LED strip & recessed downlights
Overhead joinery – custom LED strip
Walls – bathroom – custom LED tiles
Pendant – bathroom – custom glass
Mechanical
Mitsubishi 6 kw ducted with custom integrated vents
Electric under floor heating to tiled areas
Electric under ceiling heating to glazed areas
Technology
Internet – Starlink wiring set up
Audio – Sonos Bose system with integrated iPad display
TV – Samsung wall integrated and recessed TV