The Cliffs House

The Cliffs House

Doctors Point, Coastal Otago

The Cliffs House is situated high on the headland of the Otago coastline, not far north of Dunedin City.  Placed high on the cliffs, above the main trunk line that overlooks and wraps around the tidal inlets of both Purakaunui and Blueskin Bay, the building site provided a spectacular but extremely exposed location to place a dwelling.

“The architect’s interpretation of this brief has resulted in enjoyable, flexible spaces that can be opened or closed up as desired.

Dedicated circulation space is limited to the compressed links, heightening the sense of delight when entering the central kitchen and entertaining space. Elsewhere passage is from room to room, further enhancing the spatial efficiency of the plan.
Everywhere, black and natural cedar offset each other, with featured metalwork too, all of it enhancing the simple form.

Nestled amongst the tall gum trees with view shafts overlooking the bay, this house is unassuming and has integrity, and the care taken to minimise the impact on the surrounding environment is evident.”

- NZIA Awards Jury Citation

Type
New Residence
Coastal

Size
250m2

Year
2019

Award
2020 – NZIA Local Award for Architecture

Published
ArchitectureNow

Photography
Simon Devitt