Whangamata Beach House

A beach house overlooking the sand dunes for a large extended family.

Strata was engaged by the clients to replace an old bach with a beach house specifically designed for them and their family.

Perched above the dunes and clad in a terne coated shell, the living spaces look out over the beach, framing views of the four islands off shore. The primary bedroom sits behind, looking back towards the road.

The lower floor houses a series of bedrooms that sleeps 14, enough for the wider family, with access into a shared living and dining area that in turn opens out onto the lawn.

The house is designed for easy living - it is not precious or fussy. The external materiality is durable and hard, made to withstand the coastal environment and provide shelter year round. The interior is lined with Tawa, painted warm and friendly tones, and is full of objects with meaning and personality to the owners.