McKenzie Cove New Build

The site is a back section and surrounded by houses on all sides, but it is slightly elevated and is north facing with stunning views of beautiful close and distant headlands that frame the bay it is located in. The clients had just retired and wanted a second home away from the city to spend a substantial amount of time in as a couple, and to share with friends and family. Noting the site context, our concept was to take a (suburban) box, and subtract voids and add solids as required for function, light, and interest. The height of the box forms was maximised to capture views and sun. We were influenced by the 'white' beach houses of the New York Five architects from the 1970's, many of which are on Long Island NY and have similar suburban beach environments. Although the initial idea was of simple stacked boxes, the result is a home with complexity and varied visual interest. The site slopes down to the north and faces the sea views. We dug into the land to form the basement garage and bunk room. The ground level is living, kitchen and dining, which all open to the north facing decks and to the sheltered but sunny west facing courtyard. Bedrooms are located on the top floor, all getting views of either the sea or the local hills. The main living area has a dramatic double height space providing north west light and as a space for the main bedroom to look through for extra views. The study is an open mezzanine that also takes advantage of the void space to get views over the living area and out to sea. Finishes are influenced by the colours in the area. Bleached driftwood a soft warm grey, became a base point and background colour used to set off other more vivid colours and textures. The Shadowclad and timber floors have varying tones in a warm grey wash, while the curved stair is clad in grey zinc, a soft matt finish which gives the sense of being slightly sun faded. The courtyard and balconies are all finished in a mid grey eco decking. Blockwork to the interior is left exposed (another grey) and contrasted with a neutral off white wall. The kitchen has a feature wall that glistens and mimics the ripples left on the sand at low tide. Light fittings suggest abstract forms of driftwood. Blues and greens of the sea, and vegetation which dominate the view were also used as accent colours in furniture and fittings.