Team Architects

A young couple originally from Belgium, who had completed a previous apartment fit out in Belgium, but with no experience of building in New Zealand, were looking for a striking but cost effective solution for a new house at the foot of the Kaitake Ranges in the Mt Taranaki/Egmont National Park. 

The clients were clear and concise with their brief communication in that the house had to be positioned to maximise the sites enormous potential in terms of views and provide protection from the elements whilst all on a modest budget.

The steep site with its associated topographical constraints set within a unique alpine wind zone informed the design and led to a key aspect of the design – elevating it on poles – to both enhance the views from the house whilst providing an element of stability. The house itself also forms a protective back to the slope and its linear form directs inhabitants within to the selected views over rolling farmland towards the distant sea. 

The exposed location and the inclement Taranaki climate also had the clients seeking a warm well lit house, with the ability for the client to be able to sit in the sun at different times of the day. Materials were chosen carefully to counter the extreme conditions of the site and to provide a striking aesthetic accentuating the building’s linear form. A wide timber deck on the northern side of the house also allows for maximum enjoyment of warm sunny days. 

Modern and comfortable, Spacious and low maintenance, the dwelling not only caters for the client’s current situation, but also allows for the building to grow with them and any additions to the family, including separate spaces for extended family and friends from further afield. 

Completed on time and importantly from the client’s point of view, on budget, this house is a considered addition to its site and context.