By Bossley Architects
Located in the rapidly expanding eastern end of Omaha Beach, one row of sections back from the sand dunes, the house is an exercise in symmetry modulated to suit the site. In order to sit calmly in the somewhat jumbled context, it has clear formal structure: two symmetrical plywood-clad boxes float over pre-cast concrete panels and present a strong elevation to the street, symmetrical above and modified below to provide a welcoming entry sequence. The formality becomes frayed with an incised terrace and horizontal planes of louvred sunscreens to the sea and sun on the north. This format offers privacy from the street and a more relaxed relationship between the interior spaces and the lawn with beach beyond.
Materials were chosen to offer a sense of directness: concrete floor, pre-cast concrete wall panels, anodized aluminium joinery and louvres, stained plywood panels. The way natural light enters the house becomes important to enliven the materials and spaces, whether directly through the large upper level glazing, dappled by the adjustable louvres or timber screen, or through the milky white translucent glass around the dining area. A heightened awareness of shifting weather patterns arises from the play of light and cloud shadow on the interior surfaces.
Bossley Architects is a multidisciplinary Architecture and Interior Design practice based in Tamaki Makaurau Auckland, creating architecture to lift the spirit. The practice is based on the belief that innovative yet practical design is essential for the production of good buildings and spaces, and that the best buildings spring from an open and enthusiastic collaboration between architect, client and consultants.
We have designed a wide range of projects including commercial, institutional and residential, and have amassed special expertise in the field of art galleries and museums, residential and the restaurant/entertainment sector.
Whilst being very much design focused, the practice has an overriding interest in the pragmatics and feasibility of construction. There is considerable hands-on building experience amongst the personnel, and buildings are carefully detailed with construction methods in mind.