From the Dunes to the Page: Nala Studio Architects Featured in Habitat Magazine

There’s a specific kind of magic in the Whakatane coastline—the way the light hits the dunes, the wild energy of the surf, and that distinct "edge of the world" feeling. When Tanja and Brett approached us to design their retirement home, they didn't just want a house; they wanted to bottle that feeling. They wanted a home that felt like a permanent holiday.

We are incredibly proud to see this project featured in the latest issue of Habitat magazine. While the feature dives deep into the aesthetics, for us at Nala Studio, this project was a masterclass in balancing a rugged environment with a refined, modern interior.

The Modern Bach Reimagined

The brief given to our lead architect, Noor Keary, was centered on a "modern Kiwi bach." We wanted to take the nostalgia of the classic New Zealand holiday home - simplicity, connection to nature, and a relaxed footprint and elevate it into a functional, low-maintenance sanctuary suitable for retirement.

The site itself dictated the design. With a northerly outlook over the sand dunes toward the ocean, the house needed to be a spectator to the view. We designed the layout to ensure the landscape remained the protagonist, with the architecture serving as the perfect frame.

Bringing the Horizon Indoors

In coastal architecture, there’s always a risk that a home can feel "cold" or overly clinical with too much glass. To counter this, Noor focused on a palette that pulled directly from the shoreline.

Instead of competing with the view, we invited it in. We used soft, sea-glass greens in the kitchen cabinetry and front door to echo the specific hue of the local surf. These were paired with warm timber finishes and sandy, off-white tones that mimic the driftwood and dunes.

"The kitchen is the backdrop for the open-plan living and entertaining area. It looks out toward the sea and sun, so the materials had to feel organic and timeless," says Noor.

To add a bit of soul and personality, we integrated hits of deep orange and light pink through tactile tiling. These pops of warmth offset the cool oceanic tones, ensuring the home feels cozy even when the Whakatane weather turns wild and moody.

Architecture That Respects the Site

The exterior of the home is a study in texture. Clad in natural timber that will weather beautifully over time, the structure sits low and humble against the landscape. We chose materials that require minimal upkeep, allowing Tanja and Brett to actually enjoy their retirement rather than spending it on home maintenance.

Overcoming the Hurdle

Every project has its story, and this one was built during the challenging era of Covid-related cost increases. It required a high level of transparency and creative problem-solving. We worked closely with the clients to make strategic adjustments, ensuring that while the budget stayed intact, the architectural integrity and that "holiday vibe" were never sacrificed.

Seeing Tanja and Brett settled into a space that truly reflects their lifestyle is the ultimate reward. Being featured in Habitat is just the cherry on top.

Want to see more of this coastal retreat? You can find the full spread in the current issue of Habitat or you can visit online by clicking here.

Thinking about building your own coastal sanctuary? Would you like me to put together a brief guide on how we approach site-specific designs for coastal New Zealand?