Designed as a
refuge from the busy city lives of the owners, the Matapouri Beach House
provides relaxed holiday living.
The plan is
organised around a central spine, with spaces orientated to specific views. The
open plan living area flows seamlessly onto a generous northern open deck to
the view, and an alternative sheltered space with bbq and outdoor fireplace, to
the north-west. The bedrooms are in contrast more protected, with shutters that
lift up to provide protection from summer sun, maintaining cooler temperatures.
Materials are
almost exclusively timber, with stained cedar shiplap cladding and hoop pine
plywood wall and ceiling linings. The exposed structure is saligna, and
flooring is kwila. Translucent elements are used in parts of the roof and
cladding introducing a delicate light quality to the circulation space and
outdoor fire area.
The house closes down
with the use of sliding panels and hinged shutters, ensuring security is
provided when the house is not in use.