A Respectful Balance – Waimataruru by Pac Studio and Kristina Pickford Design

Positioned just above the beach and embraced by a regenerative forest native to New Zealand, Waimataruru is the result of a collaboration between Pac Studio and Kristina Pickford Design. Together, the architect and interior designer have created a residence that allows its owner – Kristina Pickford herself – to entertain, live comfortably and be assured that her abode remains respectful to the landscape that surrounds it.

In the brief for Pac Studio, Kristina requested the creation of a dynamic home in an environment that allowed her to engage with the restoration and rehabilitation of the natural surrounds. Additionally, the site’s typography played an important role in the arrangement of the residence and, as such, Pac Studio arranged for the architectural features to seamlessly cascade down the natural slope of the site, whilst interior spaces granted expansive views of the landscape beyond.

As the dwelling navigates a sloping site, each space within has been influenced by a different part of the landscape.

The addition of specific architectural choices, such as pocket views out to the forest behind the house and cosy interior moments, have been added to provide a sense of comfort within. With an intentional duality, the architect has designed the off-grid home to encompass views to the beach to the north and the forest to the south. Along the east-west axis of the residence, the service areas face the forest, whilst the living spaces are filled with natural light and welcome sweeping ocean views.

As the dwelling navigates a sloping site, each space within has been influenced by a different part of the landscape. With a focus on imbuing the interior design with elements and colours that reflect the natural environment, the use of timber as the predominant material for the residence – both internally and externally – grounds the home in place. Additionally, a red oxide wall takes centrestage in the living room, whilst lime plaster walls have been designed with sand from the beach, further enriching interior gestures. The waxed steel of the fireplace and seating area then add a softness and warmth that deepens the home’s detailing and lively character and provides a space for the owner to connect to the land. The structure’s off-grid nature and eco-conscious initiatives also see the residence harvest rainwater, optimise energy use with 26 photovoltaic panels supported by a Tesla Powerwall and use a Biolytix waste management system.

With a focus on imbuing the interior design with elements and colours that reflect the natural environment, the use of timber as the predominant material for the residence – both internally and externally – grounds the home in place.

Drawing on each other’s knowledge, Pac Studio and Kristina Pickford Design have designed a house with an enriching spirit that respects the land on which it sits. With space to entertain, discover the meaning of respite and appreciate the surrounding landscape, Waimataruru showcases how a home can collaborate with nature and encourage growth.