Textured Timelessness – York House by Monk Mackenzie
Located on a corner site in Parnell, Auckland, York House by Monk Mackenzie is an exploration of rich, timeless materiality. Deliberately set back from the site’s boundary edges, the mixed-use development proposes ground-floor commercial spaces with five levels of apartments.
The sculptural, curved exterior of the building is wrapped in a distinctive precast concrete in dark charcoal, referencing the volcanic bedrock on which it rests and reminiscent of draped fabric – a gesture to the suburb’s industrial history. The scalloped façade, anchored by rhythmic columns throughout, features delicate glazing that creates an internal atrium affect, championing natural daylight and connection. Externally, textured concrete and lush plantings contribute to a sense of lightness for the overall mass while the greenery provides a sense of privacy for the residential terraces.
The apartments, which include two penthouse floors, feature floorto- ceiling glazing to allow natural light and extensive views of the surrounding city, Waitematā Harbour and Rangitoto Island. On the ground floor, consideration has been given for retail or hospitality opportunities, as well as lush landscaping, allowing the structure to actively contribute to the streetscape in a positive and engaging way for residents and passers-by alike.
With interiors by Amelia Holmes, a restrained palette of warm timber, natural stone and textured paint in dark, rich hues is found throughout, complementing the soft curves of the structure’s envelope and encouraging moments of both shadow and light. A refined range of greys define the colourway of the building, while native landscaping on both the ground floor and the residential balconies offers intrigue and greenery.
