A steep westerly facing site (1273m2) overlooking Waiheke Island’s idyllic Palm Beach provided an interesting challenge; to utilise the site in an environmentally friendly way, maximizing views and indoor/outdoor living, creating a relaxed holiday home with a modern "bach" feeling.

The client’s brief emphasised the idea of Waiheke as a place of relaxation, an escape from the rigors of modern city living, all year round. The island’s location, a 35-minute ferry ride from Auckland City, makes it an ideal spot for short breaks as well as longer holidays. The natural environment of beach and native bush, space, light and privacy were essential criteria of the brief. A casual living environment, cozy and comfortable for two people yet capable of hosting a number of family and friends, was another essential. Climate control for summer and winter comfort was to be considered ensuring shady spots in summer and maximizing sun in winter.

Primarily constructed from concrete block, bandsawn plywood, cedar shiplap cladding and Onduline roofing, all left to weather, the house incorporates as many of the existing trees and bush as possible into its layout. Coupled with complementary landscaping, the house nestles comfortably into its steep bush-clad site.

From the road above the house is barely visible ensuring privacy and alleviating noise pollution. Approached via a raised timber walkway that floats above the natural landscaping, the entry “journey” further removes the house from the road.

On reaching the house a detached sleeping pavilion housing two double guest bedrooms, with associated sunken courtyard and gardens, is first approached. Beyond these the multi purpose concrete block tower indicates entry to the main house.

The tower accommodates the house bathroom and service area in the basement, a study/retreat on the upper floor and a private roof deck on top. The solidity and multi levels of the tower ground the building firmly to its site, creating an axis point from which the main living pavilion and sleeping pavilion are anchored.

The building (141m2 + 63.5m2 decks) is designed to operate as a single bedroom dwelling for a couple including ensuite and dressing room, with the detached sleeping pavilion and study providing extra sleeping rooms when necessary. The separation of the guest quarters from the main living creates a sense of ownership and privacy for their occupants.

The public face of the house is geared towards the beach incorporating a large deck to maximize views and outdoor living. The decks and gardens have been designed as integral parts of the living areas, opening out and embracing the outdoors.

From the beach the house is barely visible, the natural materials and sympathetic use of the site and landscaping have ensured the house sits well in its environment, successfully adhering to the client brief.

Photographer
Emma-Jane Hetherington