Whakatane Waterside Retreat: Beachfront Haven
Nala Studio Architects

Whakatane Waterside Retreat: A Modern Beachfront Haven

Nala Studio Architects as Architects

 Nala Studio Architects has had the privilege of designing homes in some of New Zealand's most splendid locales, and this project in Whakatane is no exception. Tasked with creating a beachfront residence for a semi-retired couple, our brief was to construct a home that not only sat a mere block from the beach but also adhered to stringent development guidelines. These guidelines were put in place to preserve the architectural integrity of the area and prevent the construction of disproportionately large homes that could overshadow the natural beauty of the locale.

photo_credit Nala Studio Architects
Nala Studio Architects

The Vision

The couple was clear about their requirements: a two-bedroom home with a versatile granny flat for visiting family. They desired a permanent residence that retained the casual elegance of a beach house, complete with a home office nook and thermally efficient design, taking advantage of the northeast-facing site with uninterrupted views.

photo_credit Nala Studio Architects
Nala Studio Architects

The Design Journey

Entering the home, guests are met with a choice: descend to a secluded guest suite or ascend to the light-filled main living area, where expansive windows offer sweeping views of the ocean. The master suite is deliberately positioned to capture the morning sun and breathtaking vistas, ensuring the couple starts each day immersed in their surroundings.

photo_credit Nala Studio Architects
Nala Studio Architects

Strategic design ensures that living spaces enjoy the warmth of the afternoon sun, with a layout that extends into an alfresco dining area on the deck. This space not only serves as a hub for family gatherings but also allows for intimate dining settings, complete with built-in seating.

photo_credit Nala Studio Architects
Nala Studio Architects

Guest Accommodation and Privacy

The guest suite offers independence and comfort, with its own access, patio, and garden area, ensuring privacy for both visitors and homeowners.

photo_credit Nala Studio Architects
Nala Studio Architects

Integration with the Environment

Externally, the home transitions smoothly from the substantial decking to the natural landscape, embracing local climate considerations to provide shelter without sacrificing openness. The materials chosen—timber weatherboards, structural elements for the deck, and external shutters—enhance thermal efficiency and blend with the coastal environment, evolving naturally to echo the tones of driftwood.

photo_credit Nala Studio Architects
Nala Studio Architects

The Final Ensemble

The result is a residence that perfectly balances the clients' lifestyle needs with environmental considerations, embodying the essence of coastal living while providing a functional, elegant full-time home. The design not only respects its setting by the beach but enhances it, offering a home that is both a personal retreat and an inviting space for gathering.

photo_credit Nala Studio Architects
Nala Studio Architects

This project, like all undertakings by Nala Studio Architects, reflects our commitment to thoughtful, context-sensitive architecture that enriches the lives of its inhabitants.

photo_credit Nala Studio Architects
Nala Studio Architects
Project Credits
Product Spec Sheet

Project Spotlight
Product Spotlight
News
CAN adds verdant extension to London terrace
12 Nov 2024 News
CAN adds verdant extension to London terrace

Architectural studio CAN has completed the extension of a terraced house in Stoke Newington, London,... More

QARTA Architektura’s design for new Blum HQ exhibits smart industrial aesthetic
12 Nov 2024 News
QARTA Architektura’s design for new Blum HQ exhibits smart industrial aesthetic

Czech creative studio QARTA Architektura has designed a new Prague-based headquarters for Blum, a le... More

Fujianese restaurant blends traditional Chinese elements with contemporary aesthetics
12 Nov 2024 News
Fujianese restaurant blends traditional Chinese elements with contemporary aesthetics

Located in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn, Nin Hao is a new Fujianese restaurant designed by the archite... More

Studio Gang Unveils Expansion at California College of the Arts in San Francisco
12 Nov 2024 News
Studio Gang Unveils Expansion at California College of the Arts in San Francisco

Studio Gang has completed an exciting new expansion for the California College of the Arts (CCA) cam... More

Frankie Pappas and community activists transform GBV hotspot in South African township with bright pink landmark
11 Nov 2024 News
Frankie Pappas and community activists transform GBV hotspot in South African township with bright pink landmark

Frankie Pappas is a collaborative architecture and design studio. The name is a collective pseudonym... More

Open Architecture designs conical Sun Tower as a “cultural lighthouse”
11 Nov 2024 News
Open Architecture designs conical Sun Tower as a “cultural lighthouse”

Beijing-based Open Architecture has completed the Sun Tower, a waterside cultural facility in the Ch... More

Midland Metropolitan University Hospital sets new standard for clinical healthcare design
7 Nov 2024 News
Midland Metropolitan University Hospital sets new standard for clinical healthcare design

Architectural studios HKS, Cagni Williams, and Sonnemann Toon have completed the Midland Metropolita... More

EovaStudio uses Baguette Oval glazed terracotta facade from Tempio in sports pavilion renovation
6 Nov 2024 News
EovaStudio uses Baguette Oval glazed terracotta facade from Tempio in sports pavilion renovation

Seville-based architectural firm EovaStudio has renovated and improved a sports pavilion located in... More