Robust and Enduring – Blanks Bach by Bonnifait + Giesen Atelierworkshop

Set on a steep site and overlooking an enviable view, Blanks Bach by Bonnifait and Giesen Atelierworkshop combines the effortlessness of the traditional New Zealand bach with the consideration and robustness of a permanent urban residence.

Located above the expansive Akaroa Harbour, Blanks Bach sits nestled into its hillside. Taking cues from its combined coastal and rural locale, the bach rests comfortably in its surrounds. With its muted green façade blending with the vegetation, its tall and angular form opens up toward the view and hugs the site tightly to the rear. Much like the traditional bach vernacular, the comprising parts come together with consideration of its remoteness and are drawn from a place of utilitarian necessity. The combined effortlessness and sturdiness of the architecture creates a sense of familiarity while bridging the permanent and temporary dwelling typologies.

Having been a regular visitor to the site and vacationing with friends on the original dwelling on the same land, the client knew the area well. This connection with the landscape, and its location as an idyllic and reflective opportunity, saw the creation of an occasional home as a natural process. Subdividing the original site saw the seed of the idea planted, and through commissioning Bonnifait and Giesen Atelierworkshop the client was able to carve their own shelter into the hillside.

Blanks Bach by Bonnifait and Giesen Atelierworkshop combines the effortlessness of the traditional New Zealand bach with the consideration and robustness of a permanent urban residence.

The resulting form responds to the site itself. Where the dramatically sloping roofline echoes the hillside it sits atop and the large-spanning glass windows encourage natural light inward, the home expresses a deep connection to the surrounding natural elements. The robust, low-maintenance materiality also speaks to its location. Constructed out of CLT (Cross Laminated Timber) panel technology, the home is conceived on ideals of sustainability and longevity from a structural and sourcing perspective. CLT panels are made by gluing layers of solid-sawn lumber together, with the lamination at right angles of the last layer creating structural integrity and rigidity in both directions.

Blanks Bach’s cool exterior naturally blends into its surrounding context and opens up to its warm and inviting interior. The double-height internal volume allows a light and visual connection to the vegetation and views beyond, while providing protection and shelter within. Throughout, openings show curated views of the surrounds while controlling overall light and solar attenuation. Bonnifait and Giesen Atelierworkshop has combined the familiar with the resilient to create an enduring base from which to watch the world go by.

Located above the expansive Akaroa Harbour, Blanks Bach sits nestled into its hillside.

Bonnifait and Giesen Atelier Workshop has combined the familiar with the resilient to create an enduring base from which to watch the world go by.