By Doug Pearson Photography
Designed for a couple who had a deep affinity with the site having co-owned a family bach on the neighbouring site for many years. The brief initially called for a modest bach which grew into a modest beach house overtime. The project had a 5 year gestation period during which the owners camped on the site. The design needed to allow for the regular influx of adult children and future grandchildren.
The challenging site required resource consent and is bordered by a river to the west with primary sea views of the estuary and lagoon to the east. The site is cut by an open storm-water drain with tidal influence. A steep ridge rises to the south with the remains of a quarry face. A large ‘bite’ has been taken out of the site to the east of the building platform, which is DOC land. A flood hazard exists over the lower portions of the site, setting a minimum floor level. Setbacks from road, esplanade reserve and easements tightly constrain the building platform.
The beach house is ordered around a north south axis which maximizes views, sun, privacy and shelter. The folded roof of the living pavilion overhangs to the north in line with passive solar design principles to allow winter sun into the interior whilst excluding summer sun. A covered morning deck off the kitchen allows sun and the ability to check the tide with the morning coffee. The main deck bisects the living pavilion creating a breezeway dining area which when bi-fold doors are opened becomes an outdoor room in its own right. The sleeping wing aligns north south creating sea views and morning sun into the bedrooms. A west facing gallery frames a view of the quarry face beyond.
The cruciform floorplan creates multiple options for covered and uncovered outdoor spaces catering for different times of day and year. The master suite is separated from the rest of the house at first floor level to maximise spectacular views of the Matapouri Estuary. Its folded roof form mirroring the main roof below.
Vertical pre-finished metal cladding in a deep profile is used to minimize maintenance where it is naturally rain washed. Vertical Cedar cladding in a random width profile is used where it is less exposed, or for its tactile qualities around outdoor spaces. The house sits on timber foundations allowing for the flood hazard whilst providing storage for kayaks and surfboards beneath. A plywood ceiling extends to the exterior covered spaces.
Greetings,
As a Northlander born and bred I have a strong connection/affinity with it's incredible landscapes. I have a rich history living, working, exploring, playing and creating here starting with my birth in Kawakawa over fifty years ago.
After leaving our shores for adventure in 1997 I spent the next sixteen years as a travel photographer capturing high-end imagery for some of the world's most prestigious image libraries, with my images gracing the covers of a large array of international publications including National Geographic Traveller, Lonely Planet, Rough Guides, Wine Spectator, Insight Guides, Living France, Eye Witness, Time Out, Wanderlust, Frommer’s, Berlitz and Cadogan Guides. My images have also been featured in calendars, novels, countless internet uses, CD's, TV adverts, including several large advertising campaigns.
After returning home with a large young family several years ago, I now reside in the beautiful little coastal hamlet of Ngunguru, nestled on the spectacular Tutukaka coast.
If you're looking for an experienced Northland based photographer to capture your image requirements, shoot me an email or drop me a line and we can start that conversation.
Cheers
Doug