The Ocean Is Just Below: A Home That Hangs Off The Edge Of A Cliff

June 10, 2025
Perched high above the coastline, this striking modern home blends seamlessly into the lush hillside. Cantilevered over the cliff on slender steel supports, it features wraparound glass balustrade decks, warm timber cladding, and floor-to-ceiling glazing that frames panoramic views of the sea and sky. A bold, nature-integrated design that feels like a luxury treehouse.

Perched dramatically on the slopes of Mount Paku in New Zealand, Cliff Hanger House lives up to its name. Designed by Turner Road Architecture, this coastal retreat appears to float above the rugged cliffs, just 35 metres above sea level, with uninterrupted views stretching across Tairua Harbour to Slipper Island.

Perched high above the coastline, this striking modern home blends seamlessly into the lush hillside. Cantilevered over the cliff on slender steel supports, it features wraparound glass balustrade decks, warm timber cladding, and floor-to-ceiling glazing that frames panoramic views of the sea and sky. A bold, nature-integrated design that feels like a luxury treehouse.

Its angular roofline and compact footprint (just 1140 sqft or 106m²) are anything but limiting. The home is sculpted to follow the mountain’s natural contours, allowing it to settle lightly into the landscape.

Perched high above the coastline, this striking modern home blends seamlessly into the lush hillside. Cantilevered over the cliff on slender steel supports, it features wraparound glass balustrade decks, warm timber cladding, and floor-to-ceiling glazing that frames panoramic views of the sea and sky. A bold, nature-integrated design that feels like a luxury treehouse.

Western Red Cedar cladding helps the structure recede visually into the bush, while slim steel supports lift it above the steep site, giving the house a treehouse-like quality, light, airy, and deeply connected to nature.

Perched high above the coastline, this striking modern home blends seamlessly into the lush hillside. Cantilevered over the cliff on slender steel supports, it features wraparound glass balustrade decks, warm timber cladding, and floor-to-ceiling glazing that frames panoramic views of the sea and sky. A bold, nature-integrated design that feels like a luxury treehouse.

Designed with passive principles in mind, Cliff Hanger House features cross ventilation, thermally efficient materials, and low-E double glazing to keep it comfortable year-round. Skylights and glazing are placed for maximum daylight and minimum environmental impact.

Evening light spills onto this wraparound timber deck, seamlessly connecting indoor living to a sheltered outdoor lounge with sweeping ocean views. Glass balustrades and louvered screens offer openness and privacy, while natural materials keep the home grounded in its stunning coastal setting.
Framed by timber cladding and full-height glass, this cozy living space opens wide to a sun-drenched deck with views beyond. Skylights and sliding doors flood the interior with natural light, while the seamless connection to the outdoors creates an inviting, relaxed atmosphere perfect for coastal living.

Inside, the layout is cleverly planned. Two spacious bedrooms with ensuites are tucked at opposite ends for privacy, while the centre of the home brings everyone together.

This living room combines natural textures with a clean, open layout. Vertical timber paneling brings warmth and contrast to the white walls and vaulted ceiling. Stone-toned sofas offer comfortable seating, anchored by a dark oval coffee table. The fireplace wall includes a built-in TV, with a bench and art niche tucked to the side for reading or relaxing. Skylights and clerestory windows fill the room with light, keeping the space bright and uncluttered.

A standout feature of the kitchen is the island, which includes an angular integrated table that feels more like a crafted piece of furniture than a standard dining table. This thoughtful design maximizes space while encouraging casual meals, conversation, and connection.

This kitchen pairs natural materials with a simple, functional layout. Pale wood cabinetry adds warmth, while an island and backsplash bring in texture without visual clutter. Skylights brighten the space throughout the day. The island also has a built-in wooden dining table adds a sculptural touch and serves as a spot for everyday meals. With easy access to the deck and views out to the water, the kitchen is designed for both practicality and comfort.

Outdoor living is a natural extension of the interior spaces, with timber decks that stretch out toward the water, creating a seamless flow between indoors and out. Framed by glass balustrades and sheltered by a louvered roof system, these platforms invite you to pause and take in the view

Framed by timber cladding and full-height glass, this cozy living room and kitchen opens wide to a sun-drenched deck with views beyond. Skylights and sliding doors flood the interior with natural light, while the seamless connection to the outdoors creates an inviting, relaxed atmosphere perfect for coastal living.

The timber decks wrap around the home, extending beyond the main living area and linking seamlessly to both bedrooms. This continuous circulation allows each bedroom to open directly to the surrounding landscape.

The timber decks wrap around the home, extending beyond the main living area and linking seamlessly to both bedrooms. This continuous circulation allows each bedroom to open directly to the surrounding landscape. Whether stepping out for morning sun or catching the evening breeze, the connection to nature is always just a few steps away.
This bedroom sits just above the coastline, with floor-to-ceiling glass framing uninterrupted ocean views. Pale timber flooring and neutral-toned furnishings keep the space simple and calm, allowing the landscape to stand out. A low armchair by the window offers a spot to read or enjoy a coffee. With sliding doors that open to the breeze or close for quiet rest, the room is designed for comfort and connection to the view.
Soft light filters through sliding glass doors, opening the bedroom to views of greenery and distant hills. The space is finished in muted tones of sage, cream, and natural wood, creating a calm, cohesive feel. A textured throw and linen headboard add subtle detail, while the bench at the foot of the bed offers a practical spot to sit or take in the view. It’s a simple, restful space designed for everyday ease.

For a closer look at the home in motion, watch the video below.

More than just a modern hideaway, this home shows what’s possible when architecture listens to the land. It’s a compact, clever, and deeply site-responsive design that balances bold form with thoughtful function.

Photography by Amanda Aitken | Architect: Turner Road Architecture | Interiors: Gezellig Interiors | Engineers: Sullivan Hall