Waikanae House II
Kapiti Coast
Sustainability was a primary focus in the design of this three-bedroom, cedar home.
With views to the western slopes of the Tararua range, natural ventilation and solar gains are maximised - the open fire and wood burner are all that's required for winter heating. The design also facilitates future photovoltaic power generation.
Created as a low, horizontal form that follows the contours of the hill, the home was constructed in two stages. The garage was built first to provide weekend accommodation while the property was established with native trees. The main house and swimming pool were the second stage.
"This house, clad in a linear cedar and macrocarpa screen, opens up to sun and views on the hills of the Kapiti Coast. The architects guided the clients through a staged build of the house, which incorporates the key moves of passive solar design, shading, and natural ventilation. The continuation of timber paneling through the interior of the house maintains the casual but clean feel of the exterior." NZIA Awards Jury, 2020
Photos: Andy Spain
Awards: NZIA Wellington Architecture Awards 2020, Housing.
While the home is compact, the three bedrooms are each designed to accommodate regular visits from the clients' adult children and friends, with sleeping lofts catering for any overflow of guests.
The house sits comfortably in the landscape with high clerestory windows to the south allowing light to flood through the back of the house, providing ventilation as well as views towards the pasture land behind.
The brief also included a study and a designated space for the client's home brewery.
Materials are primarily oiled cedar, board and batten.
Taking advantage of the balmy Kapiti climate, the pool area includes a range of tailored options for outdoor cooking, including a pizza oven and BBQ designed for the site.