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The Auckland (NZ) Architectural Association recently organised another of their tours. This one, March 2014, was to four new houses on Waiheke Island. Waiheke is largest of the idyllic islands in our Hauraki Gulf, Auckland, one of a small group near the entrance to Waitemata Harbour. It's 26km long in rolling hills, coves, and beaches. Access is by fast ferry.
Popular residential settlements have sprouted in recent years, particularly at the sunny bays, with a natural and relaxed atmosphere. Not long ago it was mainly summer-holiday retreats, but now it attracts commuters and wealthy owners to the setting. World-class vineyards in the warm climate are particularly noted.
The architectural issue then, is to provide some high-quality-design accommodation while suiting the relaxed natural setting.
AAA arranged a perfect late-summer day and excellent organisation, together with shuttle-buses every 15 mins.
The four private houses featured are near the west end of Waiheke. Native bush adds much to the setting. The Pohutukawa tree, for instance is a rugged coastal halophyte. Aggressive fashion-import plants are unfortunate.
All photos are hurried hand-held with the FZ200.
Many thanks to the AAA, the fellow architects, and the kind home owners.
AAA link:
aaa.org.nz/
P © :-)
AAA comment on this Mitchell & Stout house:
" With its poetically generated arrangement of volumes and forms, this house, designed as a retreat from work, offers a range of inventive and enjoyable spatial experiences and a generous and effortless relationship to the outdoors. The composition is assured, and rather quirky too. The house offers several extraordinary moments: the 'thinking room', a double-height space for music and contemplation so arresting that one's breathing changes upon entry; the guest sleeping areas, tiny screened spaces reminiscent of Ryokan architecture and also suggestive of tree huts; and the brightly yellow main bedroom. This is a house that engages with the spirit as well as all the senses."
.......cont'd
