Impactful Slightness – Fale Marker by RTA Studio

Drawing from the traditions of buildings that mark the coast for increased visibility from sea, Fale Marker sits boldly, peaking up amongst the natural. RTA Studio combines the simplicity of the removed bach vernacular together with a refined and formally identifiable structure, sitting in both contrast and harmony to the surrounds.

Located in Medlands, on Great Barrier Island, Fale Marker combines a nod to heritage and coastal traditions while also formalising a welcomed and playful addition to the landscape. As a peaked form above a regular shaped base, the residence proposed feels both unassuming and appropriate for the surrounds. Taking inspiration from the simple fale structures dotted along to mark the coastline, visible from sea, the formal approach combines both a sense of the familiar and of a rural language. The encasing material of timber is idyllically selected for its durability amongst the coastal conditions, while also adding a softening aging element, allowing it to blend into the site over time. RTA Studio carefully crafts the unique residence through a focus on refined details and open connectedness.

Lined in ply timber sheets and plasterboard internally, there is a simplicity in its composition, further reinforcing a retreat feel.

Built by Cumberland Construction, Fale Marker’s striking silhouette together with its sizing, makes it a prominent feature, almost sculpture-like, in place. The home contains three bedrooms and associated open living, dining and kitchen areas, all within a modest lens. Taking inspiration from the traditional bach structures, which were made from found materials along the coast, always rustic in nature, the home also has an ease and casualness embedded into it, allowing its owners to feel relaxed when visiting. Although the site sits nestled and protected into the dune, from the ground level this equates to obstructed views. Elevating the living in the level above, the sleeping areas are then connected to the ocean, while the lower living level is grounded and connected to the landscape.

Tucked below the structure is a basement level where the family’s boat is stored and accessed through the lifting of floorboards, making the most of the undulating site. Lined in ply timber sheets and plasterboard internally, there is a simplicity in its composition, further reinforcing a retreat feel. The same uncomplicated nature of the overall form is therefore carried inward, where operable façade elements allow for an opening up of the structure to let the building breathe. At only 110 square metres in size, the slightness of the home packs an efficient program, with the house also operating off of the grid, capturing and using its own solar power, rainwater collection, onsite stormwater disposal and passive solar control.

As a peaked form above a regular shaped base, the residence proposed feels both unassuming and appropriate for the surrounds.

As a clearly identifiable totem in place, RTA Studio’s Fale Marker stands as an interesting way to combine tradition with a contemporary approach, extending narrative and a connection to the ocean.