NZIA Wellington Architecture Award and Resene Colour Award.
Jury citation: “Back in the 50s, Basil Bodle had a vision for the Riversdale Station to become the Côte d’Azur of south Wairarapa. With its distinctive colours and stylish lines, Riversdale Beach House fits Basil’s aspirations. The roof overhang and angled side walls are inspired by Derek Wilson’s 1956 Maunsell beach house – Parsonson’s contemporary take links to those modern times and speaks to the New Zealand vernacular. The multipurpose under-croft form of the ground floor provides spacious storage, a protected entry to guest accommodation and a covered parking. Cheerfully coloured screens provide extra security to close off these spaces when not in use. The sliding screens give an elegant skirt to the L-shaped house above. The upper-level arrival provides carefully framed coastal views and the main living space soaks up all-day sun. The sheltered courtyard is a welcome respite from the wind. Inside, timber-framed panelling provides modulation and a sense of rhythm to the expansive sloping ceiling.”
In 2019, a Wellington couple purchased this property to create a holiday home for themselves and their children—a welcoming retreat for extended family and friends.
They wanted a home that was easy to lock and leave, with ample storage and spaces that worked well for both intimate family stays and larger gatherings. Understanding the dynamic weather at Riversdale—both stunning and rugged—they sought a design that balanced shelter and openness.
The house features an L-shaped main level that wraps around a sheltered, north-facing courtyard, seamlessly connecting to the main living space and bedroom. Beneath this, a flexible, openable undercroft serves as a garage, storage area, or games room. On the far side, with separate access from the main house, are two additional bedrooms, a bathroom, and the main laundry.
Riversdale Beach Resort was established in the 1950s by Basil Bodle, who envisioned a vibrant, European-style retreat filled with colour, flags from different nations, and flower-lined streets. While much of that original charm has faded—aside from the street layout, a few original homes, and bright dune flowers—this new house aims to capture a touch of that playful spirit through its shape and colour.
Photography by Paul McCredie