Located on Otago Peninsula’s exclusive Papanui Inlet, this lodge utilises an exposed a post and beam structural frame. Like one great big piece of joinery, the home pays homage to the Arts & Crafts architecture in a modern style. The exposed post and beam structure creates a strong structural aesthetic that is present internally and externally. The sheltered north facing corner of Otago Peninsula looks directly over a tidal estuary. Passive solar design was a key element resulting in a building that spatially connects to the water and surrounding landscape. This is achieved with an elongated layout stretching across the site which focuses the dramatic views while ensuring the house is bathed in sun. Macrocarrpa milled from the site and stone from a nearby quarry doubles down on sustainable building principles creating a primarily non-toxic house. These natural materials are purposely left untreated and in their natural state, with synthetic materials kept to a minimum, ensuring the house blends comfortably into its southern landscape.
With the exception of electricity the building is self-supporting. Rain water is collected and stored for drinking and used water runs off into the section’s native bush landscaping. Kaimata Retreat as it’s known is recognized internationally and is classed as one of New Zealand top five retreats. It is featured in numerous articles and has won multiple travel and architectural awards.
