Coastal contemporary

Designed by Design Builders Waikato

From the group home builder:

In summation

Undeniably, this home boasts ‘stand out’ on approach. 

Its strong coastal form and Japanese-style shou sugi ban cladding set the tone, while a kwila boardwalk-style path leads visitors to the front door, revealing the raw coastal aesthetic. 

Inside, polished concrete floors, generously proportioned windows, and timber features including warm marine ply ceilings create a welcoming, light-filled interior.

The juxtaposition of raw and refined materials enhances visual depth and atmosphere. 

Expansive stacker doors open to an outdoor retreat with matching ply-lined ceilings, a skylight, and a fireplace, offering warmth and ambience. 

On cooler west coast days, the concrete floors capture and store heat, while the ducted internal fireplace provides additional comfort. 

The home seamlessly combines striking design, practical comfort, and coastal functionality, reflecting the homeowners’ vision for a modern retreat.

Owner brief

The owners wanted a modern coastal home that would stand out on approach and feel like a true coastal retreat. 

The home needed to maximise views and sunlight while providing shelter from strong sea breezes. 

The brief included three double bedrooms, two bathrooms, a guest powder room, a home office, and a double garage. 

Functional living and entertaining spaces were a priority, with seamless indoor–outdoor flow and materials that reflected the coastal setting, combining durability with warmth and natural texture.

Challenges

The exposed coastal location required careful design to capture views and sunlight while providing protection from wind. 

Selecting materials that could withstand the coastal environment without compromising the homeowners’ desired aesthetic was essential. 

The layout also needed to accommodate multiple living areas and specialised spaces, including a scullery, wine cellar, and office, while maintaining functional flow. 

Completing the project within budget was another key consideration.

Solutions

The home was designed with a strong coastal-inspired form, finished in shou sugi ban charred vertical cladding for durability and visual impact. 

Large windows and doors were strategically positioned to frame the views and bring in natural light. 

A sheltered outdoor retreat with a ply-lined ceiling, skylight, and fireplace provides a protected outdoor space for year-round use.

Inside, polished concrete floors store heat to maintain warmth, complemented by a ducted internal fireplace. 

Warm marine ply ceilings and timber features add natural texture and depth, balancing the raw concrete and charred cladding. 

The layout integrates two living areas, a high-end kitchen with scullery, a wine cellar, bedrooms, bathrooms, a powder room, a home office, and a double garage, all arranged for functional flow. 

The project was completed on budget, meeting all the owners’ requirements.

Story by: Trendsideas