Coromandel Bach : NZWOOD

The bach, located on a manuka-clad hillside in the Coromandel, was conceived as a container sitting lightly on the land.

The unadorned natural timber, a renewable resource, was chosen because it provides a connection to nature. The construction is reminiscent of the ‘trip’ or ‘rafter’ dams common in the Coromandel at the turn of the 19th century. The bach is clad with regularly spaced 120 x 120 mm Eucalyptus saligna posts supporting 150 x 75 mm lawson cyprus boarding, which was selected for its stability in the harsh coastal environment. The boards are unlined on the interior, with their thickness being relied on to provide sufficient insulation. The sizing of these boards (that is, their thickness) means that the bach will be extremely durable and will withstand diverse variations in weather and climate. Wall panels on each long elevation can be lowered to form decks that open the interior to extensive sea views. The interior features rafters of Lawson cypress and clear-finished hoop pine plywood ceilings; interior partitions are also constructed in hoop pine plywood. Slatted timber floors in the bathrooms are reminiscent of the gratings found in shearing sheds – a stainless steel tray below the floor collects water that drains through the slats. Over time, the exterior timber will take on a silver-grey patina, contrasting with the protected interior timbers, which will retain their golden hue. This bach captures the essential spirit of the New Zealand holiday within the New Zealand landscape.

Location:

Coromandel, New Zealand

Awards:

New Zealand Institute of Architects Supreme Award 2004
New Zealand Institute of Architects Local Award 2003
New Zealand Institute of Architects New Zealand Award 2004
New Zealand Home + Entertaining Home of the Decade Winner 96–05
New Zealand Home + Entertaining Home of the Year Winner 2003
Origin Timber Design Award for Architectural Excellence 2003

References:

New Zealand Home + Entertaining, Aug/Sep 2003, pp 80–88
New Zealand Home + Entertaining, Dec/Jan 2006, pp 106–116

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