In the heart of Mount Maunganui, this family beach house makes a bold and very contemporary art deco statement.

The new dramatic facade was inspired by the curves of the original dwelling. Recreating these in vertical shiplap cedar was a challenge the builder resolved by constructing a model to determine that cavity battens could bend to a tight radius and be weathertight.

The top storey was demolished by hand and the floor expertly expanded. A large central kitchen now dominates the top floor and successfully blends a contemporary design aesthetic with a relaxed beach vibe. In the dining space, timber panels waterfall down the ceiling onto the walls; mitring is flawless at every junction. Clever architectural features pull the outside in – electric Shugg windows lower into glass balustrades, internal floor-to-ceiling glass sliders convert an outdoor entertaining area into a cosy interior dining room, and a borderless skylight rises high above the tiled shower.

A vertical cedar rain screen adds privacy, while cleverly hiding roofing junctions and screening windows. A full refresh downstairs provides space for kids and dogs.