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The soothing interior style of this Waiheke Island bach makes relaxing easy

This busy family have found respite in their Waiheke bach, where the peaceful setting and soothing interior style make relaxing easy

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Meet and greet 

Kriselle Baker (arts writer and publisher), Richard Douglas (doctor) and their daughter, Lily, 15, plus Coco the dog and Lola the cat.

The soothing interior style of this Waiheke Island bach makes relaxing easy

Kriselle Baker and Richard Douglas live and work in central Auckland, but they had long set their sights on purchasing a beach house on Waiheke Island for relaxing family getaways. In 2011, they purchased a dated 1970s bach in the coveted cove of Palm Beach, falling for the site’s many assets. “We settled on the house because it’s private, despite being located very close to the beach, and has a large, sunny garden,” says Kriselle. “It was about getting back to basics and enjoying being together as a family.”

Where have you saved money?
By staying within the original footprint of the bach.

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Any splurges?
Refitting the bathroom.

Best buy?
The extra-long, leather couch in the living area – Richard usually spends the first two days of any holiday on it, trying to catch up on his sleep!

DIY disasters?
Trying to do the garden myself that first summer without knowing anything about gardens.

Best memory at the bach?
It’s an ongoing memory – I love seeing family and friends around the outdoor table in the evenings, talking, laughing, debating.

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Best lesson learned?
Don’t try to do everything at once. Give yourself time.

Style tips?
Buy things that are sturdy and a bit rustic that won’t get destroyed too easily.

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The white-washed interior and matte-finish timber floorboards are cool, calming and in keeping with the seaside location.

Painting other structures on the property – eg a shed or sleepout – in the same colour as the house creates a cohesive look.

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Pink accents are very subtly introduced into toffee tones, lifting the simplicity of the white walls and ceilings. Decorative corners create areas of artistic interest.

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An outdoor shower is tucked into a private spot in the garden where it enjoys sea views and a starry canvas of sky at night.

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Words by: Annick Larkin. Photography by: Jackie Meiring.

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