Pauanui Vice
Pauanui Vice sits on a wide elbow site at the extreme edge of the Pauanui waterways in the Coromandel. Clients wanted a refined executive residence that could function like a Bach. The low slung 1950s Modernist structure was born.
The Neutra-inspired design by ata (formerly known as Adam Taylor Architecture) provides privacy and creates a sense of elevation. The disguised subfloor doubles as a large water-tight plant room and storage space with added insulation. Full height glass ensures the ocean and mountains are felt from all spaces. Expansive yet intimate. Plenty of space for the wider family at Christmas yet with hideaway spaces like the Library and Retreat rooms. A drive through boat shed connects to a private boat ramp and pontoon.
An axis at the entry and an opposing axis running the length of the home forms the basis of the design. These axes define user movement and demarcate areas as well as separating sleeping and living spaces from garage and services. This axis divides off the master retreat along with service spaces and garage. The outdoor living provides great depth shadow to the residence. These hybrid transition spaces use walls of cedar cladding to add warmth and nod to the coastal environment. The square and methodical layout is harmonious with the square and refined exterior. All a gentle homage to simple modernist architecture.
“Adam was firstly a wonderful listener, and respectful of the vision and ideas that we presented to him, in order to begin designing our special family meeting place in Pauanui. But he also transported us out of our comfort zone into a modern, minimalist, floating beach house that now attracts constant drive-by attention. The brief to provide a sophisticated but simple space for three generations to enjoy holidays and celebrations in, has been truly met and exceeded. Our first Christmas in the house gave us the opportunity to experience and embrace Adams design – to completely open up the common living areas into one magnificent indoor-outdoor space, and appreciate the beautiful harbour and mountain views. Thank you from all of our family for creating a wonderful setting where memories can be made.”
Shelley and Geoff Payne