Whakatane House: Beachfront Dream Home - Video Tour

Welcome to Whakatane House, a bespoke beachfront residence designed by Nala Studio Architects for a semi-retired couple looking to embrace the coastal lifestyle in Whakatane. Nestled just a block back from the pristine beach, this home combines modern design with a deep respect for its natural surroundings, meeting strict development criteria while incorporating the homeowners' personal vision. 

Design Philosophy and Approach

At Nala Studio Architects, we pride ourselves on creating spaces that resonate deeply with the needs and aspirations of our clients. For the Whakatane House, our design was guided by the dual objectives of compliance and creativity. The development's regulations required us to focus on materials and styles that reflect New Zealand's architectural heritage, which we seamlessly integrated with innovative design elements to enhance the home’s environmental synergy and aesthetic appeal.

Client Vision and Architectural Details

Our clients envisioned a retirement sanctuary that retained the airy, laid-back essence of a beach house while offering all the comforts and functionalities of a permanent residence. The resulting two-bedroom home features an additional semi-private suite, ideal for visiting family, and a dedicated workspace positioned to capture magnificent beach and park views.

Tour Highlights

• Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living: The design emphasises fluid movement between indoor and outdoor spaces, featuring a wrap-around deck that transitions into a large flexible living zone. This area uses clear, UV-protected roofing to merge protection with openness, maintaining a connection with the beach while sheltering from the elements.
• Thermal Efficiency: In line with the clients' interest in sustainable living, the house incorporates thermally broken aluminium joinery and strategic insulation placements, making it an exemplar of energy-efficient design.
• Material Palette: Reflecting the textures and tones of the beach, the material choices, including vertical timber weatherboards and natural timber finishes, are designed to age gracefully and blend with the coastal landscape.

Visual and Virtual Experience

Our video tour allows you to explore the thoughtful layout and stunning aesthetics of Whakatane House. From the private guest suite with its own patio to the expansive master suite with its office nook and panoramic views, every corner of this home is designed with purpose and passion.

Living the Design

Whakatane House stands as a testament to what is achievable when innovative architecture meets client-focused design. It’s more than a house; it’s a home crafted to enhance every moment, whether it’s a quiet morning watching the sunrise or a family gathering in the spacious living areas.

Get in Touch

Are you inspired by the Whakatane House project? Nala Studio Architects is ready to help bring your dream home to life. Contact us to discuss how we can tailor our architectural expertise to your vision, ensuring that every element of your new home is as unique as your lifestyle.