The Folly by Cheshire Architects

A reimagining of the classic garden shed by Cheshire Architects and Lucas Design Associates gives rise to a proud building of considered elevation, crafted from materials that pay homage to its humble predecessors. Ostensibly modest yet perched in the loftiest of locations, The Folly enjoys a breathtaking clifftop vantage of the inner Hauraki Gulf and Rangitoto Island near Auckland.

A measured approach by Cheshire Architects sees spectacular sea views honoured by a functional and refined built form. The rugged cliff precipice, emanating grandeur and inviting an appreciative audience, is knowingly answered by architects Stephen Rendell and Pip Cheshire. Purposefully built as a welcoming space to enjoy nature’s spoils – and with no need to gaudily announce its presence – the resulting arrangement suggests an intentional simplicity that complements, without eclipsing, the surrounding setting. At first glance, The Folly is an unassuming garden shed, which upon closer observation reveals a carefully curated design, where few elements are employed to maximise spatial impact.

The rugged cliff precipice, emanating grandeur and inviting an appreciative audience, is knowingly answered by architects Stephen Rendell and Pip Cheshire.

Brimming with a sense of repose, the modest single room structure is encapsulated in weathered Corten steel. Corrugated and oxidized to a ripe rust hue, the steel exterior conjures a timeless feel, with reverence for the country’s rich history of mining underlying the design’s nod to the iconic and enduring corrugated iron shacks of times past. Decorated in naturally ageing material, the building proposes itself as a sage inhabitant of the land; its purpose transcends the traditional practicality of a tool house for mending the old to one of creating new memories that celebrate the landscape’s present and future.

Strong connection between natural and built environment is upheld through discerning choice of materials. The nostalgic outdoor feel and gold rush memories of corrugated metal coupled with the panelled timber that continue throughout onto roughly sawn boards of the porch bedight The Folly. Its expansive panelled windows breathe salty sea air into the living space. The fireplace acts as an additional aperture through which to view the Folly’s bountiful and unique garden – with its warmth felt both inside and out, this deft insertion is another considered example of the grounding nature of this project by paying homage to its siting.

Corrugated and oxidized to a ripe rust hue, the steel exterior conjures a timeless feel, with reverence for the country’s rich history of mining underlying the design’s nod to the iconic and enduring corrugated iron shacks of times past.

Abounding in timbered fittings and accoutred with woven detailing and metal accents, Lucas Design Associates delivers a sense of refinement to the shed’s interior. The stunning melding of seemingly simple materials of glass, steel, stone and reclaimed wood imbue a decadent warmth. Seamlessly integrated into the space are two features that reveal themselves to the observant house guest; cleverly concealed doors provide passage to a modest kitchen and bathroom, as well as a bed that unfolds into the welcoming main room.

Exemplified in a skilled restraint and pared materials in the most elegant of arrangements, The Folly is forged as a humble yet quietly compelling resting place. Its simple functionality affords residents of the property a space to enjoy breathtaking sea views and frivolity by the fire.