News Article

Award Winning Architecture

Posted: 20/12/2011

There’s more to architectural design than the look, it’s also about the feeling one gets when experiencing it, and with a house designed around the concept of ‘Zen’, how could one not feel good about it?

The aptly named ‘Zen house’ is the recent winner of the NZ Institute of Architects Waikato/Bay of Plenty Awards, with judges calling it a “fine example of suburban living”.  The architect behind it, David Page, was selected “for his solid reputation, his track record as a designer of beach style architecture and his familiarity with local conditions”.

The name of the house came about when Frasers’ Architectural advisor saw David’s plan for the house. The meaning of Zen is thought to be the attainment of enlightenment of oneself. It emphasises the values of tranquillity, balance and calmness of mind. Being in the presence of this house gives you just that.

The judges noted the impressive architectural element of ‘seamless living’ where the spaces are easily linked, and the use of versatile sliders, which either extends or limits the space and “brings the outside in”. Couple these elements with the spacious feeling bestowed by the high ceilings, the house enables the option of closing off space, while still exuding the feeling of free flowing energy.

The calming presence of the house is extended through the use of water in the form of moats, which you can cross over via a ‘bridge’ and step into a garden containing native Japanese plants, and beds of pebbles.

However, in line with the principle of balance, “the architectural Zen is respected without being laboured in interior design”. The interior features complimentary and contrasting textures, tones and colours. It is where the “grey comes alive in many guises expressed in form and function subtlety and drama, in hard and soft furnishing”.

This home is not only one of brilliant design and architecture, but also of atmosphere and spirit. It is “a home for relishing life in personal space that is ample but not excessive…” and after visiting, you can’t help but be left with a good impression. 

Due the achievement of this award, this project is an eligible entrant for the Institute of Architects New Zealand Awards to be announced in May 2012.

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