A series of shed-esque structures are designed by Irving Smith Jack Architects to lap the coast in this simple, but thoughtful addition to a rural surf town in New Zealand.
Shed-Esque Neighbours
From a context of accrued simple shed-esque dwellings in an isolated and south facing New Zealand coastal surf community, a strategy of sequencing building ‘sets’ (aka surf) was generated to scale new form to its surrounds. New ‘shed’ sets are then offset to allow seasonal living, circulation, and privacy options and for variations in wind and sun exposure.
Outdoor Living
Summer opens and invites in community; with diagonal movement connecting offset and shaded external spaces. Here living holds minimal interior use, with summer circulation defining informal house boundaries, and the control of sand.
Preparing for Winter
Circulation then internalises for winter shut down, with high level northern openings capturing precious northern light and warmth, and offset forms providing shelter to the southern exposure.
Traditional Building Style
The ‘shed’ typology follows New Zealand architectural vernacular accruing from rural and isolated beginnings, and the simple, self erected, elemental buildings still apparent within these remote provincial communities.
Pergolas and Ceilings
Within this new set of ‘sheds’, timber pergolas and ceilings collate pathways within simple metal and plasterboard linings to efficiently define offset spaces and welcome an eclectic collection of furniture, the coastal community, and surf.
