Contained Quiet – Storm Cottage by Fearon Hay Architects

In its removed and rural siting, Storm Cottage is a deliberately light insertion that honours the surrounding natural aspect. Fearon Hay Architects proposes a self-sustaining residence that provides the ideal balance between providing protection from the elements and being a respectfully quaint addition to the tranquil surrounds.

Nestled into a clearing on Barrier Island off the North Island of New Zealand, Storm Cottage sits protected by the encasing terrain. The linear house is shaped to sit comfortably in an outhouse style within its rural environment. However, through an elevation of detailing, materiality and finishes, the home is fit for modern living. Inspired by its proximity to the coast, the resulting form becomes an expression of honesty. Fearon Hay Architects ensures a simplicity underpins the home and fosters a lifestyle that is outwardly connective.

Inspired by its proximity to the coast, the resulting form becomes an expression of honesty.

The overall form appears as a linear black box, solidly weighted in place and designed with intention. The timber cladding echoes the typical design of local coastal homes and was constructed from remnants of washed-up boats and ships nearby. The dark hue of the exterior ensures the form is not a dominating focal point in the landscape and the material is suited to withstand coastal winds and the harsh climatic conditions of the area. Internally, the language of timber continues, lining the walls and adding a textural and visual warmth.

Located on a slightly elevated plateau, the slightness of altitude ensures protection from flowing tides, yet the residence sits close enough to benefit from the sounds of the ebbing and flow of the ocean. A sense of effortlessness is emphasised within the house, with a pared-back palette that focuses on the surrounding nature as inspiration and an openness to the natural surrounds. Able to be opened to the elements, the façade pulls back to allow free-flowing ventilation.

The overall form appears as a linear black box, solidly weighted in place and designed with intention.

With views that stretch out toward the horizon, Storm Cottage sits as a recharging absorption of the natural surrounds. By integrating sustainable systems, Fearon Hay Architects ensures the structure is completely off-grid and produces a minimised disturbance whilst occupied.