July 2022
Sublime stay.
It's December and we escape for a night to Raglan.
Raglan township retains some of its sleepy coastal vibe although, now influenced by the influx of lifestyle-chasers, it has changed it a bit compared to when we were kids.
We drive out of town, heading west towards the big ocean. It's not far, yet rural enough to feel free. Up the driveway, punch in the code, we arrive.
We are perfectly positioned on a hillside watching the weather roll over this unique wedge of New Zealand, in a small newly formed build designed to offer accomodation like no other.
Comfortable in its surrounds, minimal and warmth in its interiors, you want for nothing.
There are great design features and surprises that will make you feel close to the land, and yet the elevated position captures the raw beauty of rural, coastal New Zealand.
We belong here.
The details are perfect, not over done, stylishly understated, transmitting a message of their own.
Whare ataahua.
Beautiful house.
The siting of the whare looks easy, nestled into an incline on it’s south side and perched above the orchard on it’s north. It overlooks the estuary and out to the harbour beyond.
It is 40 square metres of bespoke space and decking that connects seamlessly to the larger landscape it inhabits.
Kitchen and dining welcome the fresh coastal air. They are covered, yet open.
Colours of the Ponga and Harakeke, natural hues
Materials are from the tree, as much as possible, otherwise practical in support of its natural environment, colours of the Ponga and Harakeke, natural hues.
The Tatū layout is appointed for relaxation.
The view from this little home is enough to entertain.
The owner:
"In collaboration with long time friend and fellow surfer, Adam Mercer, from Mercer & Mercer Architects and his crew, everything was thrown into the pot to bring this surf whare to life. Adam understands the Kaupapa, this way of life, surf culture, and most importantly, this very cool part of the world that can’t be taken for granted."
The little bach, Whare Tatū.
A space created for whanau, friends and visitors. Simple, casual and informal.
"So, what is a home? What do you need from a building in the most basic terms? Privacy and outlook, form and function, security or openness?… ultimately, don’t you want to feel like you live on the coast every day."
Yes.
All images ©️MrWolfe 2022.
