The high winds of the rugged west coast had to be carefully factored into the planning of this 100-square-metre house. The larch cladding will weather with age, to blend in with the surrounding grassland and grey stony beaches. The orientation of the home and its long narrow structure maximises warmth from the sun. Solar panels were also added so, if desired, the home completely off-grid in the future. The house is built on piles with timber framing, meaning it s lightweight enough to be easily relocated – a necessity for anyone wanting to build in the coastal area. The award for M + M House, which is about 40 minutes’ drive from New Plymouth, was one of three taken home by Boon, with the 47-year-old practice winning a second housing gong for Twigley Bach, which also boasts views of the mountain and surf, and an interior architecture award for TSB Bank workspace Mahi Tahi.