Trends New Zealand NZ New Home Trends Vol. 30/4 | Page 31

Johnston says his own family bach is a
response to these influences. Like those original
cottages it is also an exercise in affordability, and
it has been designed so the structure can adapt
and grow over time according to the needs of
the family and future generations.
The house has a simple gable form with a
fully glazed end that soars to create a double
height volume. The ground floor is comprised
of an open-plan living area, which opens out
to a timber deck on the north side, and a bathroom. A mezzanine level with large skylights
accommodates two bedrooms.

“The gable form creates a very economical
building envelope, with a footprint of just
55m2,” says the architect. “It meant the house
could be built in eight weeks. It also created
a spacious living area – the double-height
volume dramatically increases the apparent size
and quality of the space. It also provides views
over Moturata Island and across the coast to the
lights of Dunedin, from both levels.”
Natural materials feature throughout the
house, including cedar wood cladding, pine
plywood interior walls and recycled heart rimu
wood flooring.

Above: Steel cross bracing provides
structural support to the glazed end
of the house. The glazing and the
double-height volume created by the
gable provide a very light and airy
living space that seems larger than
the 55m2 footprint would indicate.
Following pages: The interior is lined
with pine plywood, which has also
been left to age naturally. It is only
sealed in areas that are moisture
sensitive. A recessed area in the
plywood adds depth and interest.

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