Designed by Jon McAlpine Architecture, this coastal home in Mount Maunganui brings together strong architectural lines, soft neutral tones and a layout that maximises connection to the outdoors. One of the more challenging aspects of the build was the seamless plaster façade which encompasses the whole building, including parapets. The Sto team worked closely with the designer to provide technical support and assist with detailing to help bring this ambitious design to life. 

“The client wanted a very simple, clean, natural looking palette for Oceanview Road,” explains Architectural Designer, Jon McAlpine. “Inspiration came from California architecture which uses plaster and very clean lines. And then with the salt air of Mount Maunganui, it had to be low maintenance. To meet that brief we used Sto, travertine stone and Abodo cladding. That whole palette speaks to each other very well.” 

The facade system chosen needed to be lightweight, while providing the finish the client wanted. “We were dealing with massive engineering, so couldn’t add more weight to building,” says Jon. He opted for Sto’s lightweight concrete StoArmour Façade Panel system. The StoArmour system meets NZBC requirements for B1 Structure, B2 Durability, E2 External Moisture and C3 spread of fire, and is backed by a 20-year system guarantee for assured performance in coastal environments like Mount Maunganui. 

To create the seamless look the clients wanted, detailing and installation of the system needed to be meticulous. “The client didn’t want to see the parapet cap flashings, and junctions, so we looked to achieve a seamless pure form with plaster wrapped over the parapets,” explains Jon. “We worked with the Sto team to achieve the detailing that we would need to get the plaster up and around those parapets. That clean look was critical. No other product could have achieved that.”  

Clear communication and collaboration between the Sto team, Nuralite waterproofing team and the designer was crucial. “The design and install process was a little tricky as what we wanted to achieve was not a specified system,” says Jon. “We worked together with Sto and Nuralite to ensure the Sto system would adhere to the Nuralite waterproofing as intended, and that both parties were happy and could warranty it.”

The StoArmour Façade Panel System was installed by Sto Contractor Quality Finishes. “Installation of the panels is fast, so you end up with a weather tight building really quickly,” says Jon. “We use Sto and that panel system on a number of different projects because it is the best of that sort of product.” 

The façade was finished in a StoArmat Miral Render System, selected for its exceptional flexibility, fracture resistance, and proven durability. Completed with a bespoke Stolit MP Natural texture finish — a toned plaster that complements the home’s timber detailing and coastal surroundings. 

The Sto Contractor, Quality Finishes, played a key role in achieving the clean look of the facade. “The lines had to be absolutely perfect for the plaster finish,” says Jon. “The applicator had to go in and wrap around the parapet, and we also had render on the soffits on the outside. From an applicator’s perspective it's not an easy job, but when you look back at it was really worth all that time and effort. The outcome is absolutely brilliant.” 

The Stolit coloured finishing renders used combine cement free, polymer bound technology with high-quality marble grains for a highly durable finish. Free from solvents and plasticisers and being extremely low on emissions, the Stolit MP Natural texture was also applied to the interior walls and ceilings of the home, creating continuity and flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. 

“When you go into that house, it's a lovely feeling,” says Jon. “Instead of painted plasterboard walls, you have render all the way through on walls, ceilings and doors. It’s very European, which we loved. Credit to the interior team on that.” 

The use of Sto systems has helped the designers hit the brief for clean lines, a soft palette and a strong indoor-outdoor connection. The seamless Sto-wrapped façade highlights the versatility of Sto systems, and the ability of Sto’s team and applicators to work with designers to achieve unique architectural visions. 

“The client absolutely loves it,” says Jon. “We learnt a lot going through the detailing process with Sto, Nuralite, and the client, pushing the limits on what could be done, and in the end it was worth it. It was really successful, and we’d definitely recommend Sto.” 

Oceanview Road House, Mount Maunganui

Architectural Design: Jon McAlpine Architecture
Interior Design: Gezellig Interiors
Builder: Impact Construction
Sto Contractor: Quality Finishes

Project awards: 2025 ADNZ Resene Architectural Design Awards commendations in New Home over 300m2 and Home Interiors categories

Sto System: StoArmour Façade Panel system

Sto Finish: StoArmat Miral Render System with a bespoke Stolit MP Natural texture finish