The conundrum for the owners of this Hawkes Bay property was how to maximise the coastal views, without being viewed by the other coastal occupants. Architecture HDT provided the solution. This house presents well to the street without oversharing and allows the homeowners all the delights of living with a view of the bay, without being observed themselves.
The solution relied on a design that provided spaces that could remain private and function well in a coastal environment. No matter what the weather or wind direction, this home provides a spot to retreat. It might be to shelter from the onshore breeze in the secluded courtyard, or maybe seek some heartening warmth in a sunny spot provided by the floor to ceiling windows. Weather forecasts become irrelevant because of Architecture HDT’s innovative design. This house is a sanctuary, designed to shield and comfort; come rain, come shine.
HDT’s strong technical skills are evident in the seamless use of a narrow picture window, channelling light into the dining area, while courtyard water features mirror the window height and form. This stretches the eye out to featured plantings and brings the outside in. An innovative front door, features detailed fretwork and provides a modicum of privacy, as well as an unique, individual entrance way.
This is a house designed for living and has a practical layout to match. The kitchen is streamlined for efficiency and includes a two seater dining extension, perfect for those hurried coffees or breakfasts on the run. A raised terrace extends from the main living room, providing a view of the bay and the distant Mahia Peninsula. This view is shared by the main bedroom and study, while other rooms are more inward looking and address the courtyard as a focal point.
Architecture HDT has created a house that can act as a retreat, but also offers the occupants an expansive range of living options. Only truly good design, can provide both.