Waimanu Lagoon House.

This new home was to provide a tailored solution for the owners living requirements as well as allowing the flexibility to provide accommodation as a bed and breakfast business. The project is located near the Waikanae Estuary Scientific Reserve and the Waimanu Lagoon on the Kapiti Coast, New Zealand.

The economic constraints of this home required compact and simple planning. The house is located near the top of the site to maximize views over the water and to Kapiti Island as well as achieving views to the hills in the east.

A garage and carport are located at the front of the site to allowing outdoor living space between. This arrangement of buildings is reminiscent of many of the older beach bach vernacular of the Waikanae Beach area.

Drama has been created with varying volumes and texture both internally and externally. Materials and detailing take cues from the coastal environment.

Natural timber, rough masonry, and aluminium clad the building. Internally concrete floors and masonry buttresses continue inside the living and entry spaces.

Eco features have been incorporated with orientation, thermal mass and insulation specifically designed. Concrete floors and split masonry walls provide thermal mass for passive solar storage, with the home heating only requiring a small gas fire.

The home makes the most of views, outdoor living, and the relaxed Kapiti lifestyle of beach living.

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