Labour of love
A stunning house at Langs Beach is a recent project by OTC. Despite some challenges, it is one they will never forget.
How is the interior of the house laid out, and what materials did you use?
We used American oak on the floors and feature panelling, with cool coastal tones throughout to create a luxe resort vibe which is further complemented by the open-plan living, seamless indoor/outdoor flow, and retracting louvres. Each bathroom has its own unique style. Lots of textures and subtle lighting brings them to life.
What was the inspiration behind the architect’s design?
Inspiration was taken from the Island Vista. The layered silhouette of island and headland landform is mirrored in the form of the architecture, with irregular handling of roof pitches and an extruded form along the northern axis.
The courtyard layout creates visual and spatial connection. It also provides the ‘separation yet connection’ between the main north-wing and family accommodation south-wing. It allows for sheltered outdoor living regardless of wind direction and provides a light-filled inward focus so that neighbouring structures to the east and west can be visually screened.
What challenges, if any, did the builders face during the construction of the home and how were they resolved?
With earthworks commencing just as the Covid pandemic started in early 2020, the build faced an array of challenges around lockdowns, supply restraints with key contractors unable to leave Auckland, and international timber supply issues, as well as logistics of a very narrow site.
How is the exterior constructed?
Like many of the homes we have had the privilege of building, there is a stage of evolution, which in this case saw the addition of a plunge pool complete with a feature stone wall, waterfall, and perfectly landscaped gardens, to really create a tropical oasis like no other. A combination of (80% recycled) aluminium cladding and cedar timber strikes the balance between low maintenance durability and the natural visual appeal of timber.
What is the overall impression of the home's finishing and technology, and how do the homeowners feel about it?
While this home was a true labour of love given the challenges we faced with the covid pandemic, it is one that we will never forget. The end result is beyond beautiful, every inch of the home has such a high standard of finishing with complex detail, you can’t help but feel like you’re walking through a piece of art. With state-of-the-art automation, movie room (complete with motion seat), sound system, security and lighting – our happy home owners will never want to leave.
What is the clients’ favourite feature/room of their new home?
“Watching Top Gun with the sensation of being in the cockpit, feeling the turns, the dives and explosions rates tops. My home theatre with its motion seat and sensational lighting ticks the bucket list.”
“I absolutely love the beauty of the master bedroom. It has a resort-style feel to it with gorgeous sarked ceilings. Summer nights are cooled with the addition of a ‘Big Ass Fan’. The room feels warm and understated. Nothing can beat waking up to the stunning view of the beach and across to the Whangarei Heads with my morning cuppa. It feels like perfection.”
