Matapana Road

A steep westerly facing site overlooking Waiheke Island’s idyllic Palm Beach presented an interesting challenge; to utilise the site in an environmentally friendly way, maximise views and indoor/outdoor living, to create a relaxed holiday home with a modern “bach” feeling.

The clients’ brief emphasised the idea of Waiheke Island as a place of relaxation. Other requirements of the brief included a casual living environment, cozy and comfortable for two people yet capable of hosting a number of family and friends. Climate control for summer and winter comfort was to be considered also.

Primarily constructed from concrete block, band sawn plywood and cedar shiplap cladding, and incorporating as many of the existing trees and bush as possible in the layout of the house and complementary landscaping, the house nestles comfortably into its steep bush-clad site.

The public face of the house is oriented towards the beach incorporating a large deck to maximize views and outdoor living. The decks and gardens are designed as integral elements of the living areas, opening out and embracing the surrounding bush.

Home of the Year Shortlist 2001