Black Ridge

(Home of the Year 2022 Rural Category, Readers' Choice)

Location: Maunu, Whangarei

Architectural Style: Contemporary

Materials Used:

1. Dark Metal Corrugated Cladding: For a modern, sleek exterior.

2. Cedar: Adding warmth and natural aesthetics.

3. Concrete: Providing durability and modernity.

Design Concept:

The design of Black Ridge House was influenced by various factors, including the steep hillside location, panoramic views of the forest, the need for parking space, the site's connection to family roots, and the goal of seamlessly blending the house into its natural surroundings. The result is a contemporary home that stands as a harmonious part of the vast natural landscape.

Key Features:

1. Award-Winning Design: Recognized in the Home of the Year 2022 Rural Category and Readers' Choice, commended for its clear and simple form that cleverly responds to the challenges of the site and remoteness. Judges Citation "A strikingly clear and simple form that rises past the many constraints due to site and remoteness. A deceptively simple interior that responds cleverly to its location and makes the most of a well-thought-out orientation. Black Ridge is a testament to both the design and the build efforts of a young team. Simple, well detailed, clear planning and forms, delivering a lot of house on a budget".

2. Indoor-Outdoor Flow: Despite limited flat outdoor space, a deck extends straight from the living area, maximizing the connection with the surrounding environment.

3. Flexibility in Spaces: Designed to accommodate a growing family, ensuring flexibility in use and functionality.

4. Panoramic Views: Capitalizing on the breathtaking views from every space within the house.

5. Simple and Cost-Effective: Despite a tight budget, the design is simple and efficient, showcasing clear planning and forms.

Client's Preferences: The Black Ridge House caters to the client's preference for a striking yet simple design, providing a comfortable and flexible living space for their growing family.

Collaborations: Collaborating with Sam Chapman-Smith for engineering ensured the integration of innovative structural elements. The project involved a collaboration with Toby Chapman-Smith, leveraging his expertise in both design and construction.

Completion Date: Successfully completed in 2021, Black Ridge House stands as a testament to the effectiveness of the collaborative effort and the innovative design approach that met the client's needs within the given constraints.