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Waiheke Island, Auckland

Design: EA Designer

Perched atop one of Waiheke Island’s many stunning outlooks, this private residence was commissioned to take advantage of its expansive views over Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour and the city beyond. 

Located at the ridge of a vast, steeply sloping hill, this site was constantly battered by strong, biting winds. This led to a design that would create a private, sheltered living space which retained the unique views without sacrificing the comfort of the owners. A central courtyard, protected by the house’s three distinct wings looks through generous glazing to provide uninterrupted views from the comfort of the spa pool.

Incorporating sustainably farmed timber throughout, the exposure of the site also called for extreme energy efficiency, taking advantage of solar power and generous insulation free of harmful chemicals and emissions. A wetback fireplace also provides amenity for hot water during possible power cuts to ensure perpetual comfort. 

The combination of muted tones and the vertical cedar cladding with sleek, finely crafted steel roofing emphasises the purity of the building’s gable ended silhouette.

About the
Professional

 EA Designer is a small collaborative architectural and interior design practice based in Auckland. The studio’s approach is focused around client, designer and contractors working together to create bespoke, contextual design with a strong focus on sustainability and practicality.

With experience spanning from heritage buildings to modern residences, we have worked on a wide range of residential and light commercial architecture and interiors, collaborating with many talented architects to realise creative and innovative designs.

Working closely with select builders, a critical knowledge and experience dealing with practicality of construction means that each design is conceived and developed with execution in mind.

Eric Abba, BAS, MArch Prof. - Architectural Designer
"Each new residential project begins with a careful investigation of the site, observing and documenting what makes the site unique. This allows the design to respond to its environment in a way that is sympathetic and at the same time embodies the values of its users.

I believe that attention to detail and the ability to create a space that embraces and enhances its context is what defines great architecture. "

EA Designer
EA Designer

Architectural Designers