Storm Cottage / Fearon Hay Architects

Architects: Fearon Hay Architects
Location: Great Barrier Island, Auckland, New Zealand
Interiors Collaborator: Penny Hay
Area: 100 sqm
Year: 2012
Photographs: Patrick Reynolds

Located on the east coast of Great Barrier Island – a black rough sawn timber box sits looking north to the sea.

The dark exterior palette is completed with a layer of perforated metal screens. This operable layer allows the moderation of light / air and protection both when occupied and alone. Internally walls and floors are clad with oiled oak boards that provide a warm counter to its robust exterior.

The programme provides for a pair of symmetrical bedrooms and ensuites set about a central living space. Care has been made to limit the scale of the building and maintain a sense of ‘cottage’. The building is off the grid, powered by solar panels independent systems for water collection and treatment.

This is a retreat that provides shelter, warmth and comfort to engage with the wilderness and isolation of the remote setting.