Awana Beach House / Herbst Architects

Awana Beach House / Herbst Architects - Exterior Photography, FacadeAwana Beach House / Herbst Architects - Interior Photography, Table, Chair, BeamAwana Beach House / Herbst Architects - Interior Photography, BrickAwana Beach House / Herbst Architects - Exterior PhotographyAwana Beach House / Herbst Architects - More Images+ 22

More SpecsLess Specs
Awana Beach House / Herbst Architects - Exterior Photography
© Jackie Meiring

The text was written by the project curator with reference to the architect's notes. The Awana house is located on the Great Barrier island off the coast of Auckland, New Zealand. The island is actually quite rural with its major part being conservation parks. This engages some residents to adopt off-the-grid living means and setups that end up influencing their built setting. Herbst Architects have designed multiple residences on the island through the years, making them experts at managing the distant and at times harsh environment all while highlighting the contextual beauty and assets.

Awana Beach House / Herbst Architects - Exterior Photography, Facade
© Jackie Meiring
Awana Beach House / Herbst Architects - Image 25 of 27
Plan - Lower Floor
Awana Beach House / Herbst Architects - Interior Photography, Table, Chair, Beam
© Jackie Meiring
Awana Beach House / Herbst Architects - Image 26 of 27
Plan - Upper Floor
Awana Beach House / Herbst Architects - Interior Photography, Bedroom, Windows, Bed
© Jackie Meiring

The architects were therefore apt at understanding the given site and implemented design solutions such as managing the single-story residence’s orientation and composition, subject to the sloping terrain. This translated into the two rectangular volumes that respond to alternating levels of the site. The living box faces the beach, while the timber-framed bedroom connects towards the distant private back. The T-shaped composition also enables the creation of some sheltered and private exterior spaces as extensions of the common living zones

Awana Beach House / Herbst Architects - Interior Photography
© Jackie Meiring
Awana Beach House / Herbst Architects - Image 27 of 27
Section
Awana Beach House / Herbst Architects - Exterior Photography, Facade
© Jackie Meiring

Another relevant design implementation is the facade layers that offer protection from the elements and an added level of privacy to the high-end family dwelling, which is located around the dunes of the public beach. The wooden paneled shutters become the main distinguishable and bold design elements of the house. 

Awana Beach House / Herbst Architects - Exterior Photography
© Jackie Meiring
Awana Beach House / Herbst Architects - Interior Photography, Brick
© Jackie Meiring

The resulting setup is as functional as it is balanced, offering serenity and safety to the inhabitants. This is achieved through the ventilation flow, considered natural light orientations, and the choice of warm local wood and textured concrete. Going back to nature prompted energy-efficient, off-the-grid yet elegant architecture. 

Awana Beach House / Herbst Architects - Exterior Photography
© Jackie Meiring

Project gallery

See allShow less
About this office
Cite: "Awana Beach House / Herbst Architects" 27 Feb 2022. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/976225/awana-beach-house-herbst-architects> ISSN 0719-8884

You've started following your first account!

Did you know?

You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.