54 | Arcline Architecture: The Inlet Estate Development T T Lindy Andrews Unique retirement village in Kerikeri Concept design for Inlet Estate began in 2018 and the project was completed in 2022. ARCHITECTURE Kerikeri’s rich history, beaches, markets, galleries, walkways and old-world charm make it an irresistible destination for tourists and new residents alike. “Kerikeri is a town with a great vibe and very desirable with retirees. The warm, sunny climate means that even in winter people don’t need to rug up a lot,” says Trent Simpkin of Arcline Architecture. “They’re also coming to a place where a lot of residents are the same age, so they can easily make great social connections.” Nowhere is that more evident than at Inlet Estate, a bespoke lifestyle development featuring 47 stylish yet practical homes. “It’s a bit of a unique development,” says Trent. “Each property is a fee simple title, which is a big bonus versus a retirement village. Homeowners are not locked into a buyback scheme, so they are able to sell at a later date and benefit from the capital gains or pass the property on to family.” Concept design for Inlet Estate began in 2018 and the project was completed in 2022. Throughout the design process, making the most of the sunny climate within each home and low maintenance were prime considerations for the residents – who range in age from 50s to 70s, along with accessibility. “All of the homes are level entry, and we have used wider than standard, 860mm internal doorways, and extra-wide entry doors,” says Trent. “The kitchens’ accessibility is enhanced by very simple, but effective design, and bathrooms are fully tiled with safety glass shower screens.” Outside, a mix of design typologies, including varying rooflines and colours, along with other design considerations, create added interest. The homes range from two to four bedrooms and feature both standalone and duplex options. “We have given a lot of consideration to durability and maintenance. For example, we have used EZ Panel with an exterior plaster finish that can be painted any colour. “The advantages are that it’s super-hardy and doesn’t have nooks and crannies where spiders and vermin can hang out, versus a grooved surface. We have also added variation and texture using Craftstone stone veneer as a feature.” Inlet Estate residents also enjoy the luxury of a pool house, swimming pool and 2500sqm of sprawling, beautifully landscaped shared gardens. The Kerikeri township, with its destination stores and market selling local produce, artisan foods and crafts, is just two minutes away by car or a gentle 10-minute stroll. Ten to 15 minutes away is the idyllic Kerikeri Inlet, a mecca for swimmers, kayakers, paddleboarders and boat-owners keen to enjoy a day’s fishing or explore the Bay of Islands’ many attractions, including the famed Stone Store. The Arcline Architecture team is making its name across New Zealand as specialists in lifestyle and retirement village design. “We have worked in Kerikeri on Oakridge Estate, another housing development by the same developer, and designed over 100 villas for Arvida and more than 100 for Metlifecare,” says Trent. “There is a bit of skill in terms of timing, especially getting the consenting process right. In the case of Inlet Estate, we worked with council to continue building while the wastewater, stormwater and potable water infrastructure was being installed. While not a standard process, it allowed the project to flow smoothly, which saves time and money.” Arcline knows developers’ hopes, desires and aspirations well – an advantage that has seen the company dramatically increase its footprint. “We know how to create a quality outcome quickly; we know what people want and how planning and consenting processes work,” Trent says. Arcline Architecture is now making its name in Pukekohe, Whanganui, Palmerston North, Greymouth and Westport. www.specialized.co.nz 0800 0800 79
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