Island Retreat

Written by Omar Dahabra

Location: Auckland, New Zealand
Year: 2011
Architects: Fearon Hay Architects
Photography by: Patrick Reynolds

​This retreat for a family is an arrangement of freestanding structures around a courtyard, set in asaddle above Matiatia Bay. The environment of WaihekeIsland can be idyllic, but also inhospitable with exposure to northerlies and southwesterlies of the Hauraki Gulf. The natural undulations of the saddle have been subtly emphasized to form a protective setting for three structures, a pool and the open spaces between.

Conceived as a camp, the architecture has developed direct references from this typology. Individual roof planes​ cover the three structures, each separately housing the​ functions of living, sleeping and studio. These draped planes are tensioned over rough concrete forms embedded in the undulating contour.

The concrete forms enclose service spaces associated with each activity, while an arrangement of retractable glass panels and perforated aluminium screens offer variations of enclosure to living and sleeping space.

This layered enclosure, the thermal mass of the concrete construction and inclusion of solar energy generation,rainwater harvesting and onsite wastewater management​ e​​nsures that minimal demand is made on resources outside the site.

While the materials respond to the environment with robust toughness, this is countered by the placement of fires, an invitation of leather cushioning around a sunken sitting area and use of linen fabrics and oiled natural timber throughout the spaces.

The retreat offers simultaneous exposure to, and protection from the elements. The architecture balances raw material with tailored comfort and intends to provide the family with richness of experience during their time on the island. Text description by the architects.

Source: www.archdaily.com + www.fearonhay.com
Area: 375 m²

Omar Dahabra
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