Coromandel Bach: Beach House (Literally) Opens to the View

Coromandel Bach by Crosson Clarke Carnachan Architects

An Open Bach

Coromandel Bach was conceived as a container sitting lightly on the land for habitation (or the dream of habitation). A 'bach' (pronounced like bachelor) is a New Zealand term for a simple holiday shack.

The intention was to reinterpret the New Zealand bach building tradition -- the crafting of wood, the expression of structure, cladding, lining and joinery -- in a raw and unique way.

The construction is reminiscent of the "trip" or "rafter" dams common in the Coromandel region at the turn of last century -- Heavy vertical structural members supporting horizontal boarding.

Coromandel Bach

Capturing the View

The house has a simple rectangular plan that sits across the contour in a patch of cleared bush. The bach is designed like a rural shed, facing north and the view.

Coromandel Bach
Bach

Indoor Camping

The living room is open to the outside and the sun, a metaphorical tent or campsite, while the bunkrooms are enclosed and cool.

Coromandel Bach

Natural Timber

The unadorned natural timber, a sustainable and renewable resource, provides a connection to nature and the natural.

Coromandel Bach
Coromandel Bach

Open or Closed

A simple mechanism to the deck allows the "box" to open up on arrival - providing a stage for living - and to close down on departure - providing protection.

Coromandel Bach
Coromandel Bach

Connection to Nature

The large fireplace allows winter occupation and the open bathroom and movable bath allows the rituals of showering and bathing to become and experience connected to nature.

Coromandel Bach
Coromandel Bach
Coromandel Bach
Coromandel Bach
Coromandel Bach
Coromandel Bach
Coromandel Bach

New Zealand Spirit

This bach is an attempt to provide an environment to capture the essential spirit of the New Zealand holiday in the New Zealand landscape.

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