Matapouri House

Generally, ocean views get all of the attention. With the Matapouri House, architect Belinda George celebrates New Zealand's native bush. The holiday home is nestled in a small clearing on a clifftop overlooking the sea. Its curved form hugs a hillside, dividing the living and bedroom wings while also creating a connection to both the bush behind and the bush below. Timber cladding on both the exterior facade and the internal living spaces creating a casual, camp-like atmosphere that encourages inhabitants to mingle with nature.

Photos: Simon Devitt / Belinda George Architects