D M A

Orkney

Mt. Maunganui, Bay of Plenty. New Zealand2010

A densely suburban area in Mount Maunganui presented a section with a sharp two metre drop mid-site.

This ground condition lead to four separate half levels housed within two distinct sculptural forms. At their fulcrum, two levels of outdoor living space provide separation of shared and private spaces zoned within the two respective forms. To frame the outdoor spaces and providing a connection between the two forms, a generous stairway.

The Eastern form houses the garage/entry below and shared spaces above. The Western form accommodates the private spaces.

At ground level - the entry, garage door and adjoining walls are ʻflush-cladʼ in horizontal stained cedar weatherboards. This creates a moment of secrecy as to discovering the means of entering the home. After passing through the entry door, the visitor is immediately disengaged with the imminent suburban context as move into the foyer and lower courtyard, well hidden from the entry/driveway.

Manipulation of privacy was a key driver in the development of the project resulting in areas that, while cannot be thought of as strictly private, place the occupier in a position of dominance. This is especially notable in the living area that overlooks the public beach access walkway.

From the entry/driveway, the clean white angular forms evoke the prows of two ocean vessels vying for the attention of the ʻMountʼ.

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  • Daniel Marshall
  • Ernie Shackles & Patrick Reynolds
  • NZIA – Resene Colour Award
  • NZIA – Waikato Bay of Plenty Branch Award, Residential