Bethells Bach by Herbst Architects

Designed by Herbst Architects. Bethells Bach is a two-bedroom bach set back from the beach overlooking a hillside at Te Henga.

Architect: Herbst Architects
Location: Bethells, New Zealand
Contractor: Paul Buchan
Photography: Jackie Meiring

According to the architects: 30km North-West of Auckland City, Bethells is a coastal community located on one of Auckland’s popular west coast beaches. Bethells community is separated from the beach behind sand dunes that have accumulated over the last several thousand years. An area of natural beauty and wild landscapes, it is surrounded by mountains and native bush.

Bethells Bach is sited amongst this dramatic landscape. It is envisioned as an informal space that takes advantage of its siting through varying apertures to the front and rear of the site. A covered deck positioned around a fireplace at the front acknowledges this informality and creates an active and social entry experience. To the rear of the lounge a semi-enclosed terrace sheltered from the North-East wind provides views towards the steep landscape and native bush. Landscaping includes a garden sculpture made from steel trusses - recycled from a previous structure on the site. Timber batten screens provide protection from the wind, and a central courtyard with volcanic rocks and planting dapple daylight into the lounge - whilst allowing for the doors to be left open in varying weather conditions. The house is clad in vertical cedar boards that wrap onto the inside, blurring the distinction between internal and external.

Playfulness and simplicity are the essence of this bach at the beach.

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