"The Douglas fir beams and posts provide the essence of the home in several ways," says Hemingway. "The structure's simple form belies the care and craftsmanship required to achieve it."
An example of this is the make-up of the structure itself. Built in an earthquake zone, the connections between the posts and beams had to be steel reinforced. Instead of external bolts and steel plates, or even recessed bolts hidden behind wooden plugs, Hemingway created seamless joints, with all metalwork positioned inside specially designed apertures at the ends of the beams. These rigid, almost invisible joints were then cemented' by filling the connections with fibreglass.
"The hand-finished beams and posts also play an important aesthetic function," says Hemingway. "Their positioning forms a strong visual patterning, with millwork, window systems, flooring patterns, and even the custom lanterns adding to the sense of rhythm."
While the home's extensive glazing provides an obvious connection with the outdoors, the choice of locally sourced timber and stone provides another connection.
"Natural materials are used throughout the house," says Hemingway. "Granite, used for the entry to the home, was also sourced locally. This whole coastal area was originally the preserve of local indigenous people, and both the owners and myself felt it was important to retain a strong connection to the land."
Choice of materials also enhances the sense of progression through the home. At the entry, the granite wall provides a rugged introduction, with honed granite underfoot. Once inside, there is polished granite flooring, stepping down to American cherry flooring, where the kitchen and other domestic spaces commence. The focus on natural surfaces is maintained in the communal spaces, with fire surrounds in limestone, and the kitchen cabinetry finished in Douglas fir veneer.