Langs Beach Retreat is an addition to our on-going alteration project. A Lyllian Chrystall barrell-vaulted house has been extended and developed with a cedar screen aesthetic. Now we have furthered this approach with a separate retreat building for the owners.

The brief for their space was to have the same northerly aspect with the sun, sea view, quiet from the existing living areas, and to be able to hear the sea at night.

The surprise for the clients was also exploiting the rear of the property, showcasing the native bush and developing a sheltered afternoon deck with outdoor fire.

The directionality of each space is very strong but is mitigated and softened with the play of light on the solid walls, washing down from above and sun-dialling across from the slatted screens. It results in a peaceful serene bedroom that glows day and night. Meanwhile the bathroom is on the south and an inversion of the plan: a cantilevering bay window addressing the bush. The blockwall wraps around stepping in to form a spine on which to hang the bathroom cantilever, the entry stairs and the open fireplace to the west.

Award 2017 NZIA Local Award for Architecture, Photography by Patrick Reynolds