By MC Architecture Studio
Cass Bay House is an alteration and extension project to a private family home aimed to connect with the beautiful landscape and wider environment by terracing the building with the natural contours of the site, creating a strong connection with the neighbouring ocean and hills.
Entering down the small access lane, you are greeted to the home by three stark volumes that create a distinct demarcation. To the right, a soft vertical timber-lined box with a hidden garage door stands strong and leads you inwards; to the far left a hard tiled roof and wall contrasts to the soft timber and marks the site boundary, and finally, a sculptural Corten steel portal stands in the centre outlining the entrance point by differentiating against the two strong geometric volumes to either side.
Passing through the portal you enter a clean, pure, and unoccupied gallery space, with a specifically designed gallery bench and a single stairwell descending into the house. This room amplifies the idea of passing through a portal and aims to create a moment of calm before descending into the private residence below.
Along your descent, following the single stairwell path, you find access to a series of living spaces terraced with the contours of the site, all with views over the ocean, before ending at the base of the home where you are welcomed into the large open plan living area with captivating views over the waters of Cass Bay. This space has a strong connection to the outdoor living decks which also terrace with the land, singling out platforms for specific use. i.e. intimate living, dining, cooking, and bar leaner.
MC Architecture Studio (MCAS) works from an uncompromising commitment to innovative, distinctive design and outstanding client service. Each project is unique and is tailored to the specific challenges of the physical site and the precise functionality required by the client. Sensitivity to the wider potential of design is key to the studio process, incorporating awareness of innovative materials and practices as well as aligning with all sustainable features and methods possible within the context of each project. MCAS works closely and consistently in partnership with clients and consultants, responding to needs and maintaining a global outlook that nurtures industry leadership.
Max was exposed to the foundations of design from an early age and worked at his father’s practice in his native Rome. He completed a Masters in architecture and later established his own practice also in Rome. In 2007 he moved to New Zealand and worked with Athfield Architects before establishing MC Architecture Studio ltd.
Collaboration is a consistent feature of the studio and Max is committed to developing local and international networks to cross-pollinate ideas and maintain his connection and currency with best practice and new conceptual thinking. He strongly believes that interaction develops professionalism and human potential.
Although strongly influenced by European standards, processes and aesthetics, Max takes inspiration from many sources. He has travelled extensively and completed his master’s thesis in India where he explored low cost housing. Inspiration comes also from sports and the natural environment - the ocean and the mountains particularly – as well as music and arts.
Max is passionate about built environments that attract and inspire- whether as a public civic building, a retail space or that most personal of buildings – one’s own home.