By Tawa Architecture
Overview.
To design and create a multi-functional office/retreat space that was elegant yet functional. The overall look and feel of the space was to capture the quality, stately and timelessness of a traditional Officer’s Mess with a modern touch, to align with the owner’s UK military background. This large open plan room (50sqm) situated on the third level, needed to function as both a private retreat as well as a professional full-time working office.
Layout orientation.
In order to spatially separate and organise each zone, we had to carefully consider and balance the personal and private areas which needed to include; a kitchenette, custom built-in cabinetry for the owner’s extensive library and artwork collection, desk space for two people, privacy, a relaxation and media space and extensive storage and display.
We had to carefully consider the circulation and movement patterns of each space to ensure flow and movement around the large custom desk and the seating area opposite without it feeling cluttered. It needed to have access to and seamlessly flow out onto the upper level deck maximising the expansive river views.
Design approach.
To align with the historic traditions and formal military aesthetic, materials were chosen for their presence, weight and permanence. The tones of the kitchen stone were balanced with rich oak wood finishes and bronze hardware to provide warmth and to match custom coloured flooring. The material palette was refined to provide a strong textural, but natural aesthetic that balanced with the surrounding exterior views.
Welcome to Tawa Architecture, where elevated architectural design meets proven performance. Based in the beautiful Waikato region, we specialise in Passive House, High-Performance, and SIPs architectural design and build. When you choose Tawa Architecture, you're choosing a team of experts dedicated to creating sustainable, energy-efficient, and stunning spaces that truly reflect your vision.
Our services include bespoke architectural and interior design tailored to your unique requirements, as well as Passive House design that prioritises energy efficiency and comfort. With our experienced and highly qualified team, you can trust us to deliver exceptional results that surpass your expectations. Let us bring your dream home to life with our focus on quality, sustainability, and eco-friendly practices.
TAWA Architecture is led by director and designer Brooke Cholmondeley-Smith. With over 25 years of national and international experience, Brooke brings exceptional expertise in architectural and interior design, specialising in high-performance and Passive Homes, as well as SIPs construction. TAWA Architecture are dedicated to all aspects of design and sustainable technologies, ensuring that every project combines innovation, efficiency, and beautiful design.
Certified Passive Homes
As Certified Passive House Designers, TAWA is passionate about creating homes that are both enduring in design and highly sustainable. Brooke achieved Passive House Certification and completed the first Passive House in the Waikato in 2011. As pioneers in this building method, TAWA is dedicated to using the latest technology to ensure homes are timeless, incredibly energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly. Passive Homes offer superior energy efficiency, exceptional indoor air quality, and enhanced thermal comfort - setting the standard in sustainable living.
High-Performance Homes
Specialists in designing high-performance residential homes, Tawa Architecture ensures the success of their projects by partnering and aligning with Certified Passive House Tradesmen. This crucial collaboration between a qualified builder and designer guarantees that every detail is meticulously planned and executed, resulting in homes that achieve the highest standards of energy efficiency and sustainability. By incorporating advanced building techniques and materials, TAWA Architecture’s expertise ensures reduced energy consumption, lower utility costs, and a smaller environmental footprint. Their high-performance designs also prioritise durability, strength, and overall occupant well-being, creating healthier and more sustainable living environments.
SIPs Construction
Tawa’s knowledge and understanding of Passive principles strongly informs their design approach giving them a critical understanding of thermal modelling using PHPP software, airtight and thermal-bridge free construction. This experience enables them to seamlessly integrate these principles into the SIPs framework which offers them a huge advantage to deliver exceptionally built bespoke architecturally designed homes that are not only beautiful but outperform standard methods of construction on many levels.