Waipapa by Strachan Group Architects: A Coastal Haven Merging Rural Aesthetics with Contemporary Design

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Inspired by the vernacular red shed across the adjacent banks of the Pungapunga River, Waipapa offers a tranquil family beach retreat that blends seamlessly into its rural surroundings. The westward views stretch over the river towards rolling green hills, providing a striking contrast to the white sands and surf of Whangapoua Beach, just a short walk to the north.

The site experiences strong north-easterly and south-westerly winds sweeping across the paddocks, with the summer sun being particularly harsh. The design brings together two distinct zones under a split gable roof—living spaces to the north and sleeping areas to the south. The living wing, clad in dark stained cedar, provides a calming visual retreat, while the sleeping quarters, wrapped in rich scoria-red corrugated cladding, offer a cool refuge from the heat. The internal environment adapts to varying weather conditions with large overhangs, cedar-slatted roofing, and electronic actuator screens that naturally cool and protect the space, while also providing flexible outdoor living options in both windward and leeward directions.

The seamless flow of materials from exterior to interior further dissolves the line between indoors and out. A calming palette of kwila flooring, meranti, and dark stained cedar stretches upwards in the living areas, creating a sense of spaciousness. Built-in cabinetry provides numerous cozy spots for reading or enjoying an afternoon nap, and even offers extra sleeping space when needed beyond the four bedrooms and rumpus room. The heart of the home is a sheltered outdoor room, complete with an integrated BBQ and black steel fireplace, offering a year-round gathering spot that embodies the essence of the Kiwi lifestyle through all seasons.