Located in the unique coastal region of Red Beach, is the quality-built design of single level duplex houses for Fletcher Living.

To appeal to different demographics the duplexes were designed with 2 different 3D forms off of an identical plan – one strikingly modern with the other being a modern interpretation on the traditional Ponsonby workers cottages.

The design offers spacious 240m² sections with a contemporary modern layout, consisting of two-bedroom units with generous living and dining spaces. Designed to offer a sense of space in a location known for its stunning scenery, the design’s careful selection and integration of building components employs high quality material and fabrication methods.

The expression of the façade incorporates gable roofs with subtle texture changes to differentiate each unit as its own. Styled to feel inviting and homely the building structure is complemented with aluminium roofing and vertical timber cladding to set a warm and cosy feel.

Materials were chosen to complement the styles of the designs we created – for the take on the Ponsonby cottage we opted for materials that evoked that style: corrugated roofs, shiplap weatherboard, expressed timber rafters, louvres to evoke shutters, pale colour paint finishes.

For the modern version of the same plan, we opted for dark painted bevelback weatherboard to the side elevations with matching glazing colour, and a feature wall of brick on the front elevations with one large window punched in. Roof material was trapezoidal coloursteel coloured to match the side elevations, emphasizing the tube style design. Construction was all timber frame, including timber trusses, to minimize steel framing. Concrete ribraft was used for ground floors as it was most cost effective.

Internally, each unit offers great natural light and warmth. With the benefit of added privacy and spacious indoor and outdoor flow, there is plenty of room for outdoor living and entertaining in the afternoon sun. The extensive sliding doors further allow natural breezes to flow throughout the internal spaces, keeping the building cool and ventilated.

Facts + Figures

Client: Fletcher Residential
Location: Red Beach, Auckland, New Zealand

Construction cost: Confidential
Area: 240m²
Programme: Completed 2020

Project Team: Phil Smith, Evan Crighton

Construction: Fletcher Residential
Landscaper: Natural Habitats

Image Credit: Fletcher Residential