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The initial planning of the house was based on an idea of a central living area connecting both the North and South wings providing bedrooms, WFH offices, a garage, laundry and a Physio Studio with its own private entrance.

Merimbula is the aboriginal name referencing the two lakes of the Northern and Southern ends of this coastal town and is located on the far south “Sapphire Coast” of New South Wales. It’s a popular tourist destination and known for its locally produced oysters and great beaches.

The site is approached down a ‘right of way’ from the main road heading north and is the second house we have designed for our client. Situated on cleared land in a bush hazard area it enjoys views across the town to Short Point and the Tasman Sea. The entry to the house is elevated and leads you under a covered north-facing courtyard to the entry door.

The initial planning of the house was based on an idea of a central living area connecting both the North and South wings providing bedrooms, WFH offices, a garage, laundry and a Physio Studio with its own private entrance.

It was essential to our client that there was no need for air conditioning. Our approach was to have large overhangs for North facing glazing for heat control, effective cross-ventilation including south light air dump, wood fires, and heavily insulated external fabric. The house has been future-proofed for solar panels and battery storage.

Material and products were sourced locally, including a beautiful run of spotted gum for wall cladding outside and inside. The main floor is concrete with a natural cork overlay. The raised ceiling is Hoop pine veneer plywood.

Central to this project’s success was the exceptional work of the builder, Sapphire Coast Construction, who had an incredible eye for detail and were great to work with. We are delighted with the finished result and yes are very proud of our talented team.

Location: Australia

Year Completed: 2022

Awards:

  • TIDA Australia Homes: Highly commended
Merimbula House
Merimbula House
Merimbula House
Merimbula House
Merimbula House

Professionals used in
Merimbula House

About the
Professional

Established in 2004, Wingates is an award-winning Architecture & Interior Design studio.

With offices in Auckland, Tauranga and Hamilton, the studio has earned a reputation for delivering successful solutions across a range of design disciplines. The team boasts extensive experience and skill in the areas of commercial architecture, interiors, residential, retail, hospitality, healthcare and education, sharing the philosophy that optimum solutions are achieved using a combination of innovative thinking and open dialogue with all those involved in, and affected by the project. 

We have a passion for creating quality buildings, environments and products that respond to their client’s needs, user requirements and community expectations. The practice benefits from an extensive skills base that is constantly developing.

At Wingates we believe good design is an investment, and good design solutions are achieved through the application of informed and innovative thinking. Open inclusive dialogue with all those involved in, and affected by the project, will deliver the best possible solution.