This small project is unique in many ways, including the project team consisting of Dave Strachan in conjunction with 16 third year architecture students, John Cocks and Marshall Cook. This team not only designed the Onemana Bach, they built it.

Designed and built at Unitec, Auckland and transported to the coastal town of Onemana, this bach practices clever thinking and innovative solutions to produce this valuable ‘real life’ experience for Strachan’s students.

A key move is the timber slatted breezeway which penetrates the high performance thermal envelope, running NorthEast- SouthWest, this assists with natural cross ventilation and highlights the play of light with the late afternoon sun filtering through the trees and timber slatting.

Designing for a tight build time and with the intention of transportation had its challenges. Prefabricated building components are used throughout in innovative and smart ways to ensure quality and speed. The double floor step works with the natural contours of the site and the North Eastern corner hovers above the slope with large timber doors peeling back to open the corner. The material palette is locally sourced, boasting timber throughout.

Aligning with the design principles of SGA, this project encourages its occupants to interact with New Zealand’s beautiful physical environment by focusing on a sensitive and appropriate approach to materials, climate and sustainability.

Photography © Simon Devitt

NZIA Local Award - Small Project 2011

Finalist - HOME Magazine - Home of the Year 2012.