Raglan Bach

Brief
Create more space and modernise an existing family bach. Where possible, retain details of the original house to keep its treasured memories alive.

Contemporary take on a classic Kiwi bach
In 1985, having fallen in love with the small town of Raglan, our clients, an Auckland family, bought an acre of land under the shadows of maunga Karioi. The family lived in a caravan on site for many years, before building a bach in 1990 using recycled materials. Fast-forward to 2016, and the much-loved holiday home had to be redesigned to meet modern standards. After much discussion and teasing out of the client’s needs, it was decided that the existing bach — with many cherished memories and some fundamentally good design features — should be retained. A decision was made to retain and enhance the existing building by adding a new contemporary wing.

Our design sought to emphasise the connection between the plot of land and wider views. The 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom property has internal spaces that maximise the 270-degree views while controlling sunlight and climate. Two outdoor living areas (sheltered from the prevailing winds) are connected by the main living space and sweeping veranda. The house sits unobtrusively to both the land and inland sea views. Designed for extended family and friends, the new bach retains its original heart, with future generations ready to form their own memories.