Waikuta

The Waikuta Road house at Ngongotaha represents a design approach we might call "the renovation that never was" — a new build that carries forward the spirit and memory of a beloved Lockwood bach that previously occupied the site. Our clients had owned the property for more than a decade and deeply appreciated their original Lockwood home, but its deteriorating condition made preservation impossible. Rather than simply designing a contemporary lakeside home, we sought to capture the essence of the original bach experience — its modest scale, connection to the landscape, and unpretentious character. The design conceptualises two primary elements: one form references the original Lockwood in proportion and positioning, while a second appears as an extrusion or evolution of the first — as if the building had been imaginatively expanded over time. This approach allowed us to maintain the footprint and position of the original structure (crucial for resource consent requirements regarding proximity to the lake) while creating a home that meets contemporary expectations for comfort and performance. The gabled form at one end anchors the composition as a clear reference to the original bach, while the extended form creates additional living space with a more dynamic architectural expression. The internal arrangement prioritises lake views, with the kitchen and living areas facing directly toward the water, with generous glazing framing the view as a living artwork. Throughout the design, we've balanced nostalgia with forward-looking architectural thinking — creating a home that honours the site's history and our clients' memories while providing a fresh interpretation of lakeside living. The result feels both familiar and new, capturing the informal ease of bach life within a more refined architectural container.