When the Pugh family first arrived in New Zealand from England nearly 30 years ago, Pāpāmoa Beach was the first beach they visited and it’s fair to say that the stunning coastline captured their hearts. The Pughs found themselves often coming back to Pāpāmoa for holidays and it was ten years later that they purchased a section there.
Using relocatable cabins and building decking to fit around each of the cabins, the Pughs enjoyed numerous summers, making the most of the beach lifestyle. “We just fell in love with the beach. It’s never crowded, we can go for long walks, and we always have a glimpse of the mount,” says Jo Pugh.
In 2020, the family decided to decommission the cabins and finally take advantage of the long-awaited sea view that they had dreamed of for many years. Although the section is not beach front, it is elevated and not far from the beach, so the family knew that if they built two-storied, the views would be magic. They engaged Seaside Homes, Lockwood Tauranga to design and build their dream beach house.
Deciding to have their living space on the top floor to make the most of the 180-degree sea views was one of the key design features for Jo and her husband Steve. They also wanted the top floor to be completely open plan allowing the extended family to be able to gather and enjoy the space together. “We wanted a fun house where we can all come together, where the grandkids can play and where we don’t have to worry about sandy feet!” says Jo.
The family also wanted a low maintenance home and one that they could easily lock up and leave. They decided to go with aluminium cladding, which requires little maintenance, and minimal garden area.
“Lockwood met that brief – with aluminium on the exterior and blonded wood inside, we will never have to spend our time painting. Instead, we can enjoy the house for what it’s intended for; to relax together as a family and enjoy the stunning home and views,” says Jo.
Creating a place for the whole family to enjoy was also important, with a purpose-built bunk room for Jo and Steve’s grandchildren a part of the brief. The downstairs space also features a rumpus room for kids to play or for adults to enjoy some quiet time. The use of industrial vinyl planking throughout also means the house is hard-wearing and easy to clean.
The Pughs wanted a house that would last for generations, and they knew a Lockwood would stand the test of time. Jo says the house has exceeded their expectations, and the process of building with Lockwood and Seaside Homes was exceptional.
“The whole process was so smooth and nothing was ever too much trouble for the team. The builders used their initiative and came up with suggestions that actually created a better end product for us.”
As part of the house, a dumb waiter that Jo had imported from overseas was included in the design, so that heavier objects such as groceries could be easily moved from one floor to the other. “This wasn’t the norm for the builders but they got round it for us and we are overwhelmed with the results,” says Jo.
Capturing the all-day sun on the surrounding decks was also an important part of the design. The use of large stacker doors ensures important indoor/outdoor flow, while aluminium louvres allow for shade and privacy when required. A high stud and clever use of skylights mean the house is bathed in natural light. The kitchen has been simply designed with a modernist edge. It features simple white cabinetry, a mirrored splashback that reflects the sea, stone benchtops and Smeg appliances.
“Thanks to our wonderful team at Lockwood, they have created the legacy that we set out to achieve and a home that will be enjoyed for many years to come,” says Jo.
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