Shoal Bay is a remote settlement on the rugged east coast of southern Hawkes Bay, New Zealand. The building was designed in 2009 by Parsonson Architects to be part of the rural setting, raised off the ground and sitting beside the original woolshed, which has served the bay since the early 1900’s. The 2,368 square foot (220 square meters) bach is rugged yet welcoming and offers unpretentious shelter, it is the type of place where you kick off your shoes and don’t need to worry about walking sand through the house.

The bach is formed of two slightly off-set pavilions, one housing the bedrooms and the other the main living space. Decks are located at each end of the living pavilion allowing the sun to be followed throughout the day. Sliding screens at the north-west end provide adjustable shelter for the different wind conditions, offer privacy from neighboring campers and act as walls for outside sleeping.

Photos: Paul McCredie