Waterfall Bay House

“Set against a backdrop of mature bush clad hills within an idyllic bay, this retreat nestles into and engages with its environment. The interior is a triumph in timber, exquisitely detailed and crafted to deliver a house which is immediately inviting, enriching and relaxing.”

RESIDENTIAL
  • PROJECT
    Waterfall Bay House
  • LOCATION
    Marlborough Sounds
  • STATUS
    Completed
  • AWARDS
    • Te Kāhui Whaihanga NZ Institute of Architects Local Award 2004
    • Te Kāhui Whaihanga NZ Institute of Architects Resene New Zealand Award 2005

“Set against a backdrop of mature bush clad hills within an idyllic bay, this retreat nestles into and engages with its environment. The interior is a triumph in timber, exquisitely detailed and crafted to deliver a house which is immediately inviting, enriching and relaxing.”

Emphasising the intimate qualities of the small bay where it is located, the Waterfall Bay house is set close to the water and runs along the contour as a two-storey primary element incorporating living areas above and guest rooms below. Linked by a glazed bridge is a main bedroom, raised above the cliff on visually unstable legs to reflect its eyrie-like relationship to the tree tops and sky.

Simon Devitt made a short video about this project featuring an interview with Pete Bossley, you can watch it here

Waterfall Bay was featured in BBC2 The World’s Most Extraordinary Homes: Season 1: Episode 3: Coast

“…excellent crafting of demolition hardwood beams and columns, timber joinery and wide timber floorboards give a strong sense of presence and permanency.”

NZIA Citation