Project Overview for Sustainable Decking Options
Perched on the eastern side of Wellington Harbour, Eastbourne House stands as a bold testament to resilience and design innovation. Conceived by Stevens Lawson Architects and built by Planit Construction, the home occupies a dramatic site defined by steep terrain, seismic activity, and extreme weather conditions.
To meet these challenges, the architects pioneered a “top-down” construction method, working downward from the roof to establish foundations and structural supports. This approach allowed the building to take shape despite the unforgiving terrain. With curved edges and a sculptural form, the house is envisioned as a large black rock shaped by natural forces, its presence both commanding and deeply integrated into the landscape.
The design intent was to choreograph a journey through the home, unfolding spaces that alternate between compression and release, light and shadow, intimacy and grandeur.
Architectural Highlights
Externally, the home is clad in black glazed terracotta tiles and black aluminium, ensuring the structure recedes quietly into the surrounding native bush. Inside, the experience shifts dramatically: a light-filled, airy environment with oak flooring by Forté flowing through hallways, staircases, and living areas.
Key spatial moments include a helical staircase that connects the entry foyer to the upper floors, a double-height living space that frames sweeping harbour views, and a sheltered terrace designed as a cave-like retreat for outdoor cooking and dining.
Art plays a central role in the architectural narrative. In the entry, a piece by John Reynolds responds to Wellington’s extreme climate and the home’s positioning as “architecture on the edge.”
Millboard Integration: Sustainable Decking Options
A pivotal material choice in the project was the integration of Millboard sustainable decking options on the terrace. Supplied by Forte, this Millboard decking offered the perfect balance of beauty, durability, and environmental responsibility.
- Continuity of Design: The Millboard finish echoes the interior oak flooring, creating a seamless transition from indoor living areas to the terrace.
- Aesthetic & Atmosphere: With its warm, textured, prefinished surface, Millboard complements the refined interior finishes while enhancing the cave-like quality of the terrace.
- Resilience: Exposed to Wellington’s notorious winds and moisture, the terrace required a robust surface. Millboard’s durable, low-maintenance qualities made it an ideal fit.
- Sustainability: As a sustainable decking option, Millboard replicates the look and feel of natural hardwood without the ecological impact, aligning with the home’s ethos of resilience and respect for nature.
The result is a cohesive living experience where the terrace becomes more than just a place outdoor to sit in but it evolves into a central space for entertaining, gathering, and connecting with the surrounding environment.
Photography by Mark Smith via The Local Project
Key Design & Functional Features
- Resilient Design: Engineered to withstand seismic vibrations and coastal winds.
- Sustainable Decking Options: Millboard delivers the warmth and beauty of timber without environmental drawbacks or demanding upkeep.
- Seamless Flow: A visual and tactile link between the oak interiors and Millboard terrace decking unites the home’s narrative of continuity and harmony.
Project Outcome
Eastbourne House is a masterclass in architectural daring, balancing sculptural form with resilience and livability. The terrace, finished with Millboard sustainable decking options, demonstrates how material choices elevate both aesthetics and functionality. It is at once sheltered and open, intimate yet expansive; an outdoor retreat that enhances the home’s connection to its environment.
Through this project, Stevens Lawson Architects showcase how innovation, craft, and sustainable materiality can converge to create a home that is both striking and enduring.
Conclusion
The Eastbourne House project exemplifies how thoughtful design and material choice can elevate a home to new heights. By incorporating Millboard sustainable decking options, the terrace not only provides a resilient, low-maintenance outdoor surface but also extends the warmth and continuity of the interior living spaces. This integration highlights the potential of sustainable decking options to enhance both aesthetics and functionality, creating spaces that are beautiful, durable, and environmentally responsible. For architects, builders, and homeowners seeking to combine style with sustainability, Millboard offers a solution that brings lasting value and seamless design harmony.
Experience the beauty and durability of Millboard sustainable decking options for yourself. Contact us today to discuss your project or order a free sample and see the quality firsthand.
Credits
Architecture & Interior Design: Stevens Lawson Architects
Builder: Planit Construction
Engineering: Sullivan Hall
Artwork: John Reynolds
Composite Decking: Millboard
Photography: by Mark Smith via The Local Project
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