Home is where the heart is, and this one — sitting prettily under two old pŌhutukawa trees overlooking Raglan Harbour — is a perfect picture of just that. Built to replace the original and faded family bach, the compact three-bedroom, two-bathroom, two-living room newcomer makes astute use of the space available in its 173sqm footprint. Constructed over three levels, with engineered block foundations, it’s an all-weather address lending a gallery-like appeal. Connecting decks protect from both wind and sun, while a covered outdoor area with louvre roof and walls leads to the kitchen and living area. Inside or out, it’s a delight to behold. Heated, polished coloured-concrete floors with plywood and cedar walls predominate indoors and frame additional touches. These include a feature halo light fitting that throws a dreamy, star-studded reflection on the ceiling. A solid plaster fireplace over aerated stone makes it all the better for lighting up some timber logs to keep this home cosy on cold winter nights. And when the world-famous Raglan surf’s up, there’s a place to clean up afterwards right at the back door. An exterior shower washes away any wayward black sand.