Raw materials with tailored comfort for island retreat

Conceived as a camp, this luxury family retreat was designed by Fearon Hay Architects as an arrangement of freestanding structures around a courtyard, set in a saddle above Matiatia Bay on Waiheke Island in New Zealand. While the island can be idyllic, care had to be taken to reduce exposure of the home to high winds. The natural undulations of the saddle have been subtly emphasized to form a protective setting for three structures, comprising living, sleeping and studio areas together with a pool and the open spaces inbetween. An arrangement of retractable glass panels and perforated aluminium screens offer variations of enclosure to the living and sleeping spaces. The raw and robust materials are countered by the placement of fires, the invitation of leather cushioning around a sunken sitting area and the use of linen fabrics and oiled natural timber throughout the spaces.

Sustainable features: concrete for thermal mass, solar energy generation, rainwater harvesting and onsite wast water management.

Soft fit out and interior collaboration with Penny Hay.

[Photography by Patrick Reynolds]