82 | ARCHITECTURE Crosson Architects T T Bernadette Cooney Unique coastal project turns heads The 33-unit complex, called Boathouse Bay, stretches along the rugged coastline and is nestled within the green bushy headland at the northernmost end of Snells Beach, an hour north of Auckland. A unique coastal community at Snells Beach, reminiscent of kiwi beachside boatsheds, has been recognised at this years architecture awards. Designed by Crosson Architects, the Boathouse Bay development won the Multi Unit Housing Award at the 2024 New Zealand Institute of Architects Awards in April. The 33-unit complex stretches along the rugged coastline and is nestled within the green bushy headland at the northernmost end of Snells Beach, an hour north of Auckland. Crosson Architects’ creative director, Ken Crosson says the Boathouse Bay masterplan was created for its developers, Avant Group, to reflect a traditional boatshed gable typology with a contemporary take. “It’s the kind of place that’s reminiscent of its coastal environment, honouring its traditional vernacular and using efficient spatial design to maximise the view and aspect.” The design concept aims to foster connection between residents with ample communal spaces. “The design features gardens, seating and barbecue areas connected by pathways and others leading to the beach,” Crosson explains, ensuring residents can interact with their neighbours, which is proven to increase social well-being. “As architects, it’s important we consider the social context, as it is a social function we perform as well,” he says. The development formulates an irregular modulation of form, repeated throughout the village clusters of up to five buildings. The exterior is clad in off white Metalcraft Espan aluminium and dark weatherboard, capable of standing up to the rigours of a coastal environment. “These are incredibly sustainable buildings, not vulnerable buildings along a coastline,” says Ken, “we’ve factored climate change into the design and arrangement of the buildings from the start of the project.” Deliberately colour coated white to add contrast within its verdant green natural surroundings, Boathouse Bay’s colour scheme was drawn from nearby Sandspit campground. “Very often in New Zealand we tend to want to blend everything in, but sometimes that’s not appropriate and you can get a bigger lift from contrasting.” Crosson Architects are no strangers to awards, having accumulated many over the years for their exceptional architectural prowess and portfolio of work. In 2023, they were awarded the esteemed John Scott Award for Public Architecture for their small but heroic Te Pae Piha Surf Life-saving Tower as a part of the 2023 National NZIA Awards. The Auckland based architectural practice New Builds | Renovations Gib Stopping | House Washing 021-949-426 dcdetail.info@gmail.com Proud tobe supportingCrossonArchitects • Nationwide, mobile in-home service with local business owners • We stock top brands to suit a range of budgets • Check out our monthly specials and finance o ers FLOORING | WINDOW FURNISHINGS | SOLAR | ENERGY SOLUTIONS 0800 103 004 • www.harrisons.nz
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