Sandspit | Julian Guthrie Architecture | ArchiPro

Arriving into the small beach community of Algies Bay, just east of Warkworth, you are immediately struck by the broad expanse of blue-green sea, the easy sweep of the gentle cove and the many small fishing and leisure boats bobbing in the calm waters.
It’s not difficult to see how the idyllic location enticed an Auckland couple who were living in Cockle Bay, Howick, to buy a premium site directly facing the water. With the idea of building a holiday residence that had the potential to become a permanent home, they contacted architect Julian Guthrie of Julian Guthrie Architecture to create a low maintenance but highly polished house that suited their specific needs and could also comfortably cater for visiting family.
A double challenge of a steep, raking site and large garaging requirements led Guthrie to tuck the spacious basement underneath and lift the level of the building to create a single-level, four-bedroom residence that maintains its privacy from the road below and celebrates its fantastic ocean views.
The architect says, “We have lifted the house up well above the street to allow for the use of large floor-to-ceiling glass sliding doors with an uninterrupted outlook to the water. The narrow balcony across the street front has a frameless glass balustrade and creates connection to the sea frontage, allowing for amazing ventilation through the living space without looking into the back end of a row of furniture.”
Within a year of completion, the homeowners, plus Richie the dog, have enjoyed living in Sandspit so much that they have made it their permanent abode. The couple are evidently thrilled with their home, saying, “Julian has done a fantastic job. The house is easy to care for and comfortable in all weather. We love spending time in the living area or the central courtyard, relaxing and enjoying the ever-changing views out over the ocean.”
Find out more about the Sandspit project on ArchiPro here: archipro.co.nz...