Beautifully designed. Better built. Surprisingly achievable. European Log Homes, Design & Build in New Zealand.

We are a Kiwi/Canadian/Latvian family, based in small ski town in South Island, passionate about sourcing and building high-quality, European log homes that are durable, energy efficient and designed to last for generations.

Latvian log houses are renowned for high quality due to a combination of centuries-old craftsmanship traditions, the use of superior local timber (80 - 100 year old spruce), and advanced precision technology. They are designed for durability against harsh climates, longevity and sustainability.

To date, Catalyst Design has successfully imported and built three house sets—two in Methven and one in Greytown—with a further project currently in final design and scheduled for construction at Lake Hawea in 2027. We have also supplied bespoke building materials for a CLT house project in Dunedin.

You are welcome to visit us in Methven or even stay in our Guest House to truly experience the feeling of a home well built!

How It Works:

1. INITIAL CONSULTATION
   Meet with us (online or in person) to discuss your ideal log home, explore floor plans, and consider the best-fit options.

2. QUOTATION
   We send your preferred design to our Latvian partner www.dores.lv for a detailed quote.

3. TECHNICAL PROJECT
   If the quote works for you, we begin the Technical Project—your home’s full structural design documentation.

4. NZ COMPLIENCE
   Our local engineer and architect prepare and submit the necessary documents to your Council. We’ll assist with any follow-up questions—they’re generally supportive of this building method.

5. MANUFACTURING
   Once consent is granted, your home is produced in Latvia (typically 6–10 weeks). During this time, we can help you choose windows, doors, flooring, cladding, and even kitchen and bathroom fixtures.

6. SHIPPING & DELIVERY
   Shipping a log house set to New Zealand takes about 12–16 weeks. Once it arrives, we handle customs and delivery to your prepared site.

7. CONSTRUCTION
   With a team of four, your home can be weatherproofed in roughly four weeks, followed by internal fit-out and finishing. We offer flexible project management options to suit your level of involvement.

Whether you're dreaming of a small eco log home or a spacious lifestyle retreat, we are here to guide you every step of the way. If you're curious about this unique way of building, we’d love to chat.

Warm regards,
Sandra & Wade McMillan