Trends New Zealand NZ New Home Trends Vol. 30/4 | Page 30

Preceding pages, top and above:
This new holiday home, designed
by owner-architect Regan Johnston,
is modelled on the traditional bach
vernacular that defines most of
the houses in the small fishing
community. Taking a contemporary
architectural approach, Johnston
introduced a fully glazed end to a
simple gable form, and opened out
the living area on the north side. The
cedar weatherboard exterior will be
left to develop a weathered patina
over time.

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For many New Zealanders growing up, the
most memorable summer holidays were those
spent lazing away the days in a tiny cottage by
the sea, more commonly known as the bach, or
if you lived down south, the crib.
These traditional buildings were defined by
their DIY construction, their recycled materials
– and furniture – and a lack of ame nities, which
was all part of the charm.
This back-to-basics architectural heritage
has helped influence the design of architect
Regan Johnston’s own family retreat, which
puts a modern spin on the traditional bach.

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Johnston says the small fishing community,
near the mouth of the Taieri River, was one of
the first settlements to be established in Otago
– Moturata Island opposite was the base for a
whaling station in the 1800s.
“The area remains largely unspoiled by
development. Many of the original fishing
cottages and summer baches are still in use, and
they are clearly a product of their environment.
Their form and scale has been influenced by
function and affordability – many reflect a DIY
approach. They have been added onto over the
years, with many recycled materials in use.”