Ligar Bay Bach by Young Architects

Embodying the carefree spirit of a treehouse, Ligar Bay Bach boasts two interconnected suites that bask in sunlight, stunning views and the refreshing ocean breeze of its beachside setting.

Perched on a steep, forested site overlooking the golden sands of Ligar Bay in New Zealand’s upper South Island, this dual holiday home by Young Architects was designed with careful consideration. Intended for use as both a private residence and a holiday rental, the home integrates well with the area – a beloved getaway for many locals. The architects designed the home as a series of minimal pavilions connected by ambling pathways, evoking the experience of wandering between tents in a campground.

Intended for use as both a private residence and a holiday rental, the home integrates well with the area – a beloved getaway for many locals.

The steep topography offers both the upper and lower suites clear sightlines over the treetops, while a flexible floor plan allows for different configurations for families and guests. Large, high-performance windows provide unhindered ocean vistas, with many custom frames crafted from the home’s steel structure.

Designed for clients Mark and Liz Ahern, who bring extensive experience in both design and construction, architect Greg Young of Young Architects was allowed to push the boundaries with the technical aspects of the design. Energy efficiency was a top priority, with careful attention to thermal bridging and passive heating using locally sourced, low-carbon concrete walls. On warm days, heat can escape through operable skylights, while pivoting walls create a breezeway off the main downstairs living area.

The upper-level suite captures a true treehouse aesthetic, boasting elevated views and a boxy structure.

The material palette was chosen to help the home blend into the site naturally. The external cladding features thermally modified Abodo timber, which will silver over time. Inside, warm timber tones continue with macrocarpa ceilings, plywood floors and Indonesian hardwood joinery, creating an inviting atmosphere throughout.

The upper-level suite captures a true treehouse aesthetic, boasting elevated views and a boxy structure. A special feature is the bathroom, which includes a polished, sunken plaster bath that offers a luxurious infinity pool experience while bathing. Although some trees were cleared for the home’s construction, the owners wanted to preserve as much of the surrounding bush as possible, adding native landscaping to further blend the home with its environment as it matures.

Architecture by Young Architects. Interior design by We Wabi. Build by APCG Polished Concrete. Landscape design by New Vision Landscapes.