Waiheke Coastal Slow Cook

A gradual makeover on 2 Waiheke cottages working the slogan you see when you disembark the Kennedy point ferry- "Slow down- You are here". For an Architect who has designed and detailed one of the largest private Get-aways in New Zealand at Pink Beach Omaha this was a commission with a difference especially when the first question from the client was – is this project too small for you? The happy outcome is an architectural engagement in true Island Time spanning over 3 years and continuing- one main idea a year slow cooked insertions to resuscitate a tired Lockwood and its Fibrolite neighbour – completed in time every year for the expatriate kiwi owners' annual 2 week visit over Christmas and the New Year. The client stipulation was to retain and optimise opportunities presented by the 2 existing buildings rather than remove and replace; thus dictating a modest economy of scale and detail you see in traditional baches. This simple design strategy meant resisting the temptation to be overly architectonic, use slicker construction details or expensive ostentatious materials so that the 2 renovated buildings can still be understood as a direct response to their humble beginnings- notwithstanding a few low key architectural features to prompt interest and conversation such as a translucent glass sliding wall nicknamed the "Ron-ster", a chain downpipe assembly, proprietary stainless steel rope balustrading in a hardwood frame.A cheerful and colourful seaside interior décor completes the picture of relaxed open seaside serenity – just the light bright Get-away from a wintry northern Hemisphere christmas season.