Eastbourne House

Nestled on the beachfront in Eastbourne, Wellington, this home is designed as a beachside retreat, balancing privacy with the dramatic beauty of Wellington’s coastline. Our clients cherished the sheltered courtyard of their original bach—a space that provided refuge from the wind and privacy from the bustling seaside promenade. This inspired our design approach: crafting a home that feels both protected and deeply connected to its surroundings.

Inspired by the form of a seashell, the house is wrapped in a robust, protective structure that embraces the elements while offering a sanctuary within. An open deck, nestled inside this “shell,” allows for outdoor living while maintaining a sense of enclosure. Expansive glazing maximizes views, while thoughtful shading ensures interior comfort throughout the day. Large glass doors connect the courtyard to the view, adapting to weather and activity, allowing for seamless indoor-outdoor living.

Internally, the home is designed for flexibility. The master bedroom enjoys prime positioning to capture sunlight and sea vistas, while a versatile flex-space serves as a study, guest room, playroom, or retreat for visiting grandchildren. From the roadside, the house presents a modest, understated façade, but upon entering, a long, uninterrupted hallway draws the eye toward the breathtaking coastal outlook, culminating in a soaring, light-filled living space.

 
 
Eastbourne House viewed from the street, with its distinctive timber screen roof and dark timber cladding.
Eastbourne House viewed from the beachfront with its timber-clad exterior and sloping roof against the hillside.
 
Covered outdoor deck and outdoor swimming pool at Eastbourne House connecting the interior living spaces with views across the beach.
 
Light-filled living room at Eastbourne House with timber ceiling, large windows and views toward a outdoor pool and the Wellington coastline.
 
Deck entryway to an Eastbourne House with timber detailing.
Open-plan dining area with timber ceiling, custom joinery and soft filtered light at Eastbourne House.
 
Living room opening onto the outdoor deck and swimming pool, with expansive views across Eastbourne Bay.
Open-plan dining area with timber ceiling and soft filtered light at Eastbourne House.
 
Custom timber table at eastbourne house, with a paper noguchi pendant, timber lined ceiling, exposed concrete flooring,and blinds
Kitchen and living area at Eastbourne House with dark cabinetry, timber detailing and a wood-burning stove.
 
Kitchen and living area at Eastbourne House with dark cabinetry, timber detailing and a wood-burning stove.
Close-up view of Eastbourne House showing timber cladding, vertical screening and the sheltered outdoor walkway.
 
Eastbourne House viewed from the street, with its distinctive timber screen roof and dark timber cladding.
 

Project Details

Project Type: New Home
Year Built: 2023
Location: Eastbourne, Lower Hutt
Architect: First Light Studio
Interiors: First Light Studio
Builder: Black Sheep Construction
Photography: David Hensel Photography

 

 

Related Projects

 

A Taranaki Beachside Abode,
Strandon, New Plymouth

A Hilltop Residence,
Hauturu, Waikato

A Beach House Retreat,
Te Horo, Kāpiti Coast

 

Previous
Previous

Whanga - Te Āhuru Mōwai

Next
Next

Craighall