Pakiri House

Built in the 1970’s by a local artist and her partner, Pakiri house sits in a sheltered and secluded site behind the dunes at the northern end of the beach.

50 years on the current owners had approached MPD to rescue and update the beach house. Having fallen in love with its modesty and materiality they realised it would not last much longer in its poor state of repair and here was an opportunity to make it fit for their particular family needs.

Used by 3 generations of the one family the Pakiri house needed to cater for up to 20 people for extended periods over summer while remaining a cozy escape for 2.

A complete restoration/renovation was undertaken. The main open plan living space was extended to the east creating a generous new kitchen opening onto a large covered outdoor area . The unused carport to the rear of the house was completely reconfigured creating a bathroom and exterior covered wash house.  In addition a separate shower room and separate toilet were added to cater for campers.

Where possible timber from the existing structure was reused for internal linings and kitchen cabinets. All timbers were New Zealand grown and with the addition of natural oil products the look, texture and aroma of the space was enhanced.

The new kitchen, panelled doors, steel hardware, exterior benches and tables and bathroom units were all designed and fabricated by the team.

PROJECT DETAILS: Floor area 158sqm, completed in 2017
DESIGN: Mike Petre Design
CONSTRUCTION TEAM: Bidwill Design and Build
KITCHEN TILES: Frolic Ceramics
PHOTOGRAPHY: Jonny Davis