wairarapa 2001
Our brief was to design a relaxed, economic beach retreat to
take advantage of the spectacular easterly sea views whilst providing outdoor
spaces sheltered from the prevailing south easterly and north westerly winds.
This beachfront site is set below the road and behind the
beach sand dunes with four significant Norfolk pines extending along the
southern site boundary forming a strong axial link to the sea.
Our solution involves a stepping building platform rising
from the roadside entry up to the main living level. Three principal space
groupings : Living / master bed pavilion, ablution area and guest
accommodation, are located on three stepping levels under a common mono-pitch
roof rising along an axial boardwalk.
The living area opens to both east and west facing exterior
decks, providing outdoor spaces sheltered from either of the prevailing winds
and alternative morning or afternoon spaces. Seaward decks step down and are
met by a sand dune ‘wave’ built up above the existing ground level providing
good ground contact whilst avoiding building code requirements for a balustrade.
Black Onduline roofing has been used in conjunction with
charcoal stained cedar ply cladding for the external “skin” of the building
with recessed faces lined with brightly painted Hardies Titan sheet. The
boardwalk is primitively enclosed with Durolite translucent sheeting with the
floor lined with tight butted exterior hardwood decking that extends into the
bathroom and service areas.
Future stages include a garage, additional bedroom space and
extension of the boardwalk giving direct access to the beach.
NZIA Resene Local
Award 2003
gardyneholt