Bach to Basics

Nestled in the sand dunes of Te Horo Beach, with sweeping views of Kāpiti Island and the Tasman Sea, this modest 85m² retreat was designed for pure relaxation. Gerald Parsonson of Parsonson Architects approached the project with a clear vision: to create something “playful in the spirit of the traditional New Zealand bach.”

That vision is brought to life by a striking upside-down truss roof, which immediately commands attention while sitting comfortably within the rugged coastal landscape. Equally distinctive are the handmade timber battens that add unique charm and reinforce the home’s handcrafted character.

When it came to the exterior cladding, the choice of Hardie™ Flex Sheet by James Hardie was both practical and purposeful. The smooth flat-sheet profile is a contemporary nod to the fibre cement cladding that defined the classic New Zealand bach era – instantly familiar yet engineered for today’s demands. “Hardie™ Flex Sheet was chosen because it echoes the look of older baches, yet remains highly practical and low maintenance,” says Gerald Parsonson.

For a home exposed to the salt air, coastal winds and moisture of a beachside location, the performance properties of Hardie™ Flex Sheet are a critical advantage. Manufactured from Hardie™ Fibre Cement, the cladding is resistant to fire, rot resistant and resistant to moisture damage and engineered to stand up to harsh environments, including coastal conditions – key considerations for a holiday property that needs to look after itself between visits.

Painted in Resene Half Delta and Canvas as the base tones, the exterior is brought to life with vibrant pops of Resene Tussock, Boulevard and Ecru White. The result is a home that feels grounded in its natural dune setting while radiating the cheerful, unpretentious energy that defines a great Kiwi bach.

Inside, the home shifts to a warm and inviting aesthetic. Plywood walls and ceilings wrap the central living space, creating a cosy timber cocoon around a woodburner. East and west decks allow the family to chase the sun and find shelter from the prevailing winds – the connection to the outdoors is seamless. 

Despite its modest footprint, the clever layout means this Te Horo retreat is built for sharing. The architectural and construction teams have created a family sanctuary perfectly designed for sandy feet, summer gatherings and making memories for years to come. The selection of Hardie™ Flex Sheet – a product that marries nostalgic character with modern resilience – was central to achieving that result.

Hardie™ Flex Sheet is a smooth, flat panel available in a 6mm thickness. The product references the look of traditional fibre cement cladding, making it a popular choice for baches and coastal homes seeking authentic New Zealand character. Pair Hardie™ Flex Sheet with Hardie™ Axent™ Trim for a for a full low-maintenance fibre cement board and batten design