niwa CABIN - FAQ
DESIGN
What is NIWA?
NIWA is Koto’s latest modular cabin collection, designed to be flat-packed for easy transport and assembly - even in remote locations.
What can NIWA be used for?
Home office, hotel room, guest house, sauna, studio, gym, or additional living space.
What sizes are available?
Small: 2.5m x 2.5m
Medium: 2.5m x 5m
Large: 5m x 5m
XL and XXL versions coming soon. Multiple cabins can also be linked to create larger spaces.
What is the height of NIWA?
3.6m at the highest point, 1.8m at the lowest. Minimum 20cm clearance underneath.
What materials are used?
Structure: Sustainably sourced timber
Cladding: Shou Sugi Ban timber (fire-rated options available)
Insulation: High-performance, suitable for year-round use
Roof: Single-ply membrane with timber cladding finish
What are the interior finishes?
Options include oak or birch plywood for studio and sleep cabins, with hemlock, spruce, or cedar for saunas.
Is a kitchen and bathroom included?
The sleep cabin includes a kitchenette and bathroom. Studios can also have a WC if required.
Can I buy furniture with my NIWA?
Yes - we offer curated furniture packs designed to complement each cabin, for a seamless and stress-free finish.
Can NIWA be off-grid?
Yes, off-grid packages are in development, tailored to your site’s needs.
Is the sauna wood-fired or electric?
Electric stove, suitable for single-phase power.
How is the cabin heated?
Electric radiators or combined heating/air-conditioning. The sauna has an electric stove.
Can I add air-conditioning?
Yes - combined heating and cooling units are available.
YOUR SITE
Where can NIWA be delivered?
Worldwide delivery is available.
Can NIWA work on remote sites?
Yes - NIWA can be delivered by lorry, helicopter, or boat, with panels sized for easy handling.
Can Koto help with site design?
Yes - we can advise on cabin positioning, orientation, and surrounding landscaping.
What do I need to organise?
Foundations
Site access
Electrical connection (or off-grid system)
Water and waste (if kitchen/bathroom included)
What type of foundations are needed?
Helical screw piles, ground screws, or pad foundations. We can recommend specialists if needed.
PERMITTING, ORDERING & COMPLIANCE
Do I need a permit?
This depends on your location and cabin size. We provide drawings and specifications, but securing permits is the client’s responsibility unless Koto is appointed to assist.
Do CDM regulations apply?
For UK projects, yes. Clients must appoint a Principal Designer and Principal Contractor.
What is included in the price?
Structure, insulation, membranes
Windows and doors
Internal and external finishes
Electrical fixtures & lighting
Heating system
Bathroom & kitchenette (where applicable)
What’s not included?
Foundations
Site services
Installation & expenses
Delivery
Taxes
Furniture & accessories
what is the licence fee?
A one-time fee per cabin type, per location, covering a single-use licence and the release of all technical drawings and specification documents required for permitting.
What are the lead times?
8-12 weeks production + approx. 2 weeks delivery, followed by 4-14 days installation (depending on size and site).
Who installs the cabin?
This depends on location. Our specialist team may install the cabin, or the client’s appointed site team can handle it.
What are the payment terms?
Staged payments starting with a deposit to secure your slot. Full terms available on request.
What maintenance is required?
Niwa cabins are designed for durability. Maintenance requirements depend on your climate and cabin use, but Koto can provide guidelines to help ensure your cabin stays in excellent condition.
What warranty is provided?
3-year structural warranty plus warranties on components and finishes.
How much does shipping cost?
Costs vary by location and access. Estimates are provided at order stage and confirmed before delivery.
Some sample costs for a Medium Studio delivered and installed in different locations:
UK Mainland - £57,750 ($74,435)
USA West Coast - ($89,435)
USA East Cast - ($85,435)
Shipping and labour cost vary, prices on enquiry, taxes and tariffs excluded.
All NIWAs are manufactured under licence by our partners SUBLIME Projects. They are responsible for all manufacture and installation for your new NIWA.