Beach-front cabin in New Zealand – a droolworthy dream home

Property envy is real. Especially, when it's a freshly designed beach-front cabin in New Zealand...We investigate

Front of spectacular beach-front cabin
(Image credit: Stevens Lawson Architects & Fisher & Paykel)

Are you sitting comfortably? Because what we're about to show you is about as dreamy as it gets in the world of home design and interiors. 

The New Zealand-based home – of artist, creative director and surfer Dean Poole and his family – is the epitome of modern beach cabin design and when the architecture is this seamless, we think you'll agree that it is quite the work of art. 

We are fairly certain that there was a price tag to match, BUT, in terms of droolworthy inspiration (which is free) to get us through one of the last weekends of summer, it does the trick. 

Keep scrolling to take a look around at the natural looking yet sleek and modern interiors, and if your mind really starts to wander towards house renovations and the likes, we can point you in the right direction. 

Known as 'Karekare Bach', this property was born from a collab between the property owner, Dean Pool, and Stevens Lawson Architects. The breathtaking beach-front cabin is also fitted out with Fisher & Paykel appliances, of course.

Come on in...

New Zealand beach. front cabin lounge

(Image credit: Fisher & Paykel + Stevens Lawson Architects)

We're starting indoors, in the lounge area of what is an open plan kitchen dining and living room. 

The minimal space that feels so close to nature, in both decor and location, was inspired by the want to create an 'authentic New Zealand experience' which, of course, goes hand in hand with its stunning, natural landscape.

This open plan space is spread across the entire lower level of the property and they chose to go open plan, purely to keep the whole family connected, and to be able to spend time together while enjoying beautiful bush views through the floor-to-ceiling windows. 

Love it? See what you can do with your space using our roundup of living room ideas.

New Zealand beach cabin kitchen

(Image credit: Fisher & Paykel + Steven Lawson Architects)

Enter, the kitchen, where simplicity was key in the pared-back design. It's the fuss-free interiors that help keep this space looking zen and like a dream to cook in. 

Dean actually chose to design the kitchen himself, seeing as he had the experience from working as Creative Director for Fisher & Paykel over many years. And for him, it was clear that the sleek and innovative appliances of the New Zealand native brand, were the perfect choice for this space. 

If you need more kitchen ideas we can help.

Beach front cabin kitchen from the side

(Image credit: Fisher & Paykel + Stevens Lawson Architects)

The black kitchen island worktop adds another dimension to the plywood-lined living space. And, the Fisher & Paykel built-in oven is stylish, but subtle, allowing the  natural woodgrain to still take centre stage.

New Zealand cabin stairway

(Image credit: Fisher & Paykel + Steven Lawsons Architects)

New Zealand converted beach cabin bedroom one

(Image credit: Fisher & Paykel + Stevens Lawson Architects)

The plywood that runs throughout the house creates a seamless transition from room to room. The black bed frame, bedside tables and window frame here accentuate and define the space, while the natural light and (no doubt) exquisite views add more life to a simple design.

Upgrading your bedroom too? Be inspired by our bedroom ideas.

New Zealand convert beach hut small bedroom

(Image credit: Fisher & Paykel + Steven Lawson Architects)

While this is a smaller bedroom, the roof light teamed with the large window bring in natural light so that it doesn't look, or feel cramped. Plus, the integrated bed – complete with plywood – is a space-saver and adds a discreet continuation of the interiors to expand the space further.

For more small bedroom ideas you can look to our gallery.

New Zealand beach-front cabin bathroom

(Image credit: Fisher & Paykel + Stevens Lawson Architects)

In the bathroom, we start to see a variation of materials which adds more depth. The black bath, sink and walls draw the eye in, and while we didn't think it possible, it ups the level of sophistication in this bathroom design too.

Find more fresh bathroom ideas in our feature.

New Zealand beach front cabin decking area

(Image credit: Fisher & Paykel + Steven Lawson Architects)

The use of different levels and landscaping materials adds interest to a simple but stunning decking area. After all, with views like these, do you really need more than a couple of deck chairs anyway?

For more achievable decking ideas take a look at our advice piece.

New Zealand beach front cabin decking

(Image credit: Fisher & Paykel + Stevens Architects)

New Zealand beach front cabin entrance stairs

(Image credit: Fisher & Paykel + Steven Lawson Architects)

And finally, the stairs add structure to the wild bush below. And, we can see the practical side too. 

More inspiration:

Camille Dubuis-Welch
Former Deputy Editor

I'm Cam, the former deputy editor of Real Homes who worked on the site from 2020 to 2023. As a renter myself, sharing a home with two friends (and my cat) in London, I know all too well the challenges that this can pose when it comes to creating your perfect setup. As someone who has always loved everything interior design-related, I cannot rest until a home feels right and I am really passionate about helping others get there too, no matter what their living situation, style, or budget may be. It’s not always the easiest to figure out, but the journey is fun and the results are so worth it.


After interior design, travel, art, and photography are my next big passions. When I’m not writing or editing homes content, I’m usually tapping into other creative outlets, exploring galleries in London or further afield, taking photos, scribbling, or drawing! 

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