Cook Drive.

Design Intent & Balustrade Requirements

Designed by Diana Blake Design and built by HAMR Home, this modern Whitianga residence combines architectural precision with effortless livability. The Cook Drive beach home celebrates natural light, sheltered outdoor living, and a strong connection to its coastal surroundings.

Eco-conscious design features include solar energy, automated controls, rainwater harvesting, and future-proofing measures such as a lift and raised floor level for sea-level adaptation.

To complement its high-spec design, NZ Windows Whitianga installed a suite of UNEX frameless glass systems, including Panorama Frameless Glass Balustrades, GlasStrut Frameless Pool Fencing, and Arena-Points Frameless Glass Balustrades for the internal stair and landing. The result is a cohesive architectural language that maximises openness and ensures code-compliant safety throughout.

With panoramic sea views as the centrepiece, the client’s brief was clear: maintain unobstructed sightlines while meeting structural and safety requirements. The frameless glass balustrade systems needed to:

• Provide wind protection and pool safety without visual obstruction.
• Comply with New Zealand Building Code performance requirements.
• Withstand the challenges of a coastal environment.
• Deliver visual consistency across interior and exterior spaces.

UNEX Frameless Glass Balustrade Solutions

Panorama Frameless Glass Balustrade

• Installed with grey-tinted toughened glass and a PRR handrail to subtly reduce glare.
• Creates seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor zones.
• Engineered for long-term durability in high-wind and coastal conditions.

GlasStrut Frameless Pool Fencing

• Offers full visibility and safety for the pool area.
• Complements the Panorama system for a unified architectural finish.
• Provides corrosion resistance and minimal maintenance.

Arena-Points Frameless Glass Balustrade

• Used for the internal stair and landing, continuing the frameless aesthetic indoors.
• Features point-fixed glass panels for a floating effect that enhances light and space.
• Balances minimal design with robust structural integrity.

Expert Fabrication & Installation by NZ Windows Whitianga

Executing a frameless system across multiple zones demands precision. NZ Windows Whitianga handled every phase - from fabrication to final alignment - with technical accuracy and care. Managing heavy glass panels, maintaining tight tolerances, and ensuring structural fixings met design intent all contributed to a flawless finish and long-term performance.

Outcome

The completed Cook Drive residence is a refined example of coastal modern architecture. The integration of UNEX Panorama, GlasStrut, and Arena-Points Frameless Glass balustrade systems delivers a unified aesthetic of transparency, safety, and sophistication.

Through collaboration between HAMR Home, NZ Windows Whitianga, and UNEX Systems, the home achieves effortless elegance, future-ready performance, and an enduring connection to its coastal setting.