The Puriri House
Construction December 2019
A grand old Puriri tree with its canopy of leaves and prolific red flowers is the opening story to a beautiful mid-century home in coastal Northland.
Positioned in Bream Tail Farm, Mangawhai Heads, this exciting new build has mastered its ocean and rural views without compromising on shelter or character. Owners Sally Doherty and Brendon Bain, sought a low profile, contemporary home. A structure that would indulge in sharp angles and clean lines, softened by a cantilever form and organic landscaping curves.
The sacred Puriri tree was a starting point for a thoughtful home that respects its companion’s wide arching branches and gnarled trunk. Connecting its audience to nature, the tree looks magnificent when lit up at night – a reminder of who was here first and showcasing its rustic charm.
Fastidious on details
Nick cannot highlight enough how collaborative and trusting Sally and Brendon were throughout the project. A true partnership approach meant that any challenges were ironed out quickly, and despite a measure of evolution required during the build, the results are spectacular.
The pair attribute the success of their home to a construction team who share their philosophy of exacting standards and great communication.
Notable design features
The inclusion of products that could endure the coastal environment and showcase the breath-taking scenery was crucial. Enormous glazed panes by Phoenix Aluminium draw in light and views and will look great for decades to come.
Dual chimney stacks have been clad in exterior tiles by Hugh Jones Tiling, with meticulous blockwork completed by local company, DC Bricklayers. The chimney tops are the craftsmanship of Gas Works & Plumbing and have perfectly nailed the desired squared finish.
The exterior fascia itself is a work of art. Aluminium composite panels by Panelab have provided a seamless, sleek vibe, juxtaposed against the pale chimneys and cedar cladding. The team from Arcwell Engineering completed the structural steelwork which allowed the interior to feel so inviting, vast and open.
Sally describes the two separate wings as sanctuaries, where the departure of eaves evokes a feeling of floating. Guests in the east-facing wing are treated to wide ocean views, while the master wing is a generous display of Northland’s farming vernacular.
Liberal use of interior timber is a nod to the mid-century theme. The vertical fins were nearly coated in paint, but Sally is thankful they have been left natural as they exude warmth and show the colour variation in the grain. Hermpac provided timber flooring solutions, and The Wooden Flooring Co took care of the ceilings – evoking a beachy vibe.
“I have always heard that building a house is a stressful experience, but this couldn’t have been farther from the truth. From the first meeting with Nick on an open piece of land, until the last piece of furniture went in, I was in my happy place. As owner and project manager, Nick supported, guided, and facilitated the process at every stage and his financial acumen combined with his close attention to detail enabled us to make choices on materials vs. cost.
Nick's team is just as great. The care, expertise, and high levels of communication meant no surprises and any issues were trouble shooted and resolved before anything became a concern or challenge. Our house is beautiful. The quality is outstanding, and I am so proud of what we all achieved together. ”
— Sally Doherty