Tata Beach House

Tuawera Retreat
February 10, 2025
Architects
Port Levy Bach
August 10, 2017
Front view of Tata Beach House perched on bush-clad hillside overlooking Golden Bay in the Tasman region

SONY DSC

Wake to a chorus of native birds in the surrounding bush, and end the day watching the sun sink over Golden Bay. A peaceful bush retreat above Tata Beach designed for effortless coastal living. Read the project story below.

A Home Above Tata Beach

Set high on a steep, bush-clad site, this contemporary home embraces the breathtaking views across Tata Beach and the wider Golden Bay region. The dramatic slope and remote location presented challenges that inspired innovative solutions.

“A home that sits lightly on the land, yet opens fully to the stunning Tasman coastline.”

To meet the site’s demands, the home uses a pole foundation system. This supports prefabricated cross-laminated timber panels for floors, walls, and roof. Prefabrication allowed for efficient, precise assembly on-site, reducing the impact of construction in this sensitive coastal environment.

Warm Interiors, Striking Exterior

Inside, the light-toned timber structure is left exposed, which highlights both craftsmanship and structural clarity. The interior warmth contrasts with the bold exterior palette of black Colorsteel and black-stained cedar board and batten. Corten steel balustrades provide a striking contrast. These materials were selected for durability in the Tasman coastal climate and to complement the surrounding native bush and Golden Bay landscape.

Indoor-Outdoor Living

Wrap-around decks create multiple outdoor living zones. The front-facing decks offer sweeping views across Tata Beach and Golden Bay. A sheltered rear pool deck provides privacy and calm. Every space encourages residents to enjoy the sun, sea breezes, and the sounds of the bush — making coastal living effortless and immersive.

“From sunrise to sunset, every angle connects you to the beauty of Golden Bay.”

Thoughtful, Practical Design

Beyond aesthetics, careful material choice and construction methods reduce ongoing maintenance while maintaining a high-quality, contemporary feel. The home sits lightly on the land, therefore preserving the bush-clad hillside while providing generous indoor and outdoor spaces ideal for relaxed living.

A Coastal Retreat in Golden Bay

This Tata Beach home shows how thoughtful design, innovative construction, and careful material selection can transform a challenging site into a serene, inspiring coastal retreat. Perfect for a holiday home or permanent residence in the Tasman region, it offers modern comfort while celebrating the natural beauty of Tata Beach and Golden Bay.

Many of our new home projects begin just like this one — with clients who’ve found a special site but aren’t sure what’s possible or where to start. Our guide to the first steps of designing your new home explains how we help you explore the potential of your site, clarify your brief, and make confident decisions before committing to anything.
If you’d like to talk through your ideas, a free consultation is a great way to see what’s achievable and how our team can help you bring it to life.

title=
Top
Get in Touch