It is a warm and relaxing seaside home, presenting emotions not usually associated with contemporary design.

The Castle Rock House is inspired by its environment in both form and material.

Its cliff-slide plot descends into the sea, and its architectural volumes follow this slope.

Castle Rock House by Herbst Architects 6

Its materials are sourced from the local environment, where both natural wood and broken stone compose its appearance.

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The material design of this home features natural wood tones both inside and out.

Outside, darker woods occupy much of the structural fascia, while open patios and windows define the rest.

Castle Rock House by Herbst Architects 8

These predominant natural elements create a relaxed, inviting and warm mood throughout the home.

Further along, another section houses a kitchen that opens into a pair of patios on either side.

This works very well in the subtropical climate of northern New Zealand.

Castle Rock House by Herbst Architects 5

[photography:patrick reynolds]

Castle Rock House by Herbst Architects 1

Castle Rock House by Herbst Architects 1

Castle Rock House by Herbst Architects 2

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Castle Rock House by Herbst Architects 4

Castle Rock House by Herbst Architects 5

Castle Rock House by Herbst Architects 6

Castle Rock House by Herbst Architects 7

Castle Rock House by Herbst Architects 8

Castle Rock House by Herbst Architects 9

Castle Rock House by Herbst Architects 9

Castle Rock House by Herbst Architects 7

Castle Rock House by Herbst Architects 4

Castle Rock House by Herbst Architects 3

Castle Rock House by Herbst Architects 2

Castle Rock House by Herbst Architects 1

Castle Rock House by Herbst Architects 5

Castle Rock House by Herbst Architects 8

Castle Rock House by Herbst Architects 6