Okitu

RESIDENTIAL

• PROJECT

  Okitu

• LOCATION

  Gisborne

• STATUS

  Completed

• AWARDS

  • Te Kāhui Whaihanga NZ Institute of Architects New Zealand Award 2006

  • Te Kāhui Whaihanga NZ Institute of Architects Local Award 2005

 This single-storey house clings to the ground as it steps down the hill, opens out towards the sea to become a grandstand for viewing.

On a ridge above the beach, this house has spectacular views from Poverty Bay right around to Tatapouri Point. The clients required a house that could accommodate an extended family but on the other hand one that would also feel comfortable if just two of them were home. This resulted in a T-shaped plan of essentially two wings, one of which could theoretically be closed down when not occupied. This form allowed a sheltered outdoor area with swimming pool, protected from the easterly and north-easterly winds but still very much connected to the view through the transparent living wing.

The landscaping and terracing extend out horizontally from the house to ‘ground’ the house to the site and also to create a series of layered exterior spaces.