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Design Summary:

The client’s brief for this project was to create an addition to the existing house providing new open plan living spaces along with a separate media room. A new gable form was designed for the addition connecting to the existing via a central entry link creating a focused axis point between the two main structures and allowing the addition to be perfectly oriented to the views.  The existing fully renovated structure gives a harmonious connection with the addition. Macrocapra timber detailing features strongly in both the interior and exterior.

Project Description:

The site is a typical rural lifestyle block on the fringe of New Plymouth – slightly elevated above the city on the Mt Taranaki ring plan giving rural views with peeks of the coast line and the city in the distance. The original early 184m2 1970’s summit stone single storey home had 3 bedrooms with separate kitchen, dining and living rooms.

The client’s brief for this project was to create an addition to the existing house providing new open plan living spaces along with a separate media room. Connecting with the outdoors was a priority as the owner’s were keen gardeners with a flare for landscape design. The original dwelling was to become the sleeping quarters and encompass a master suite with its own bathroom and living space.  The use of natural timber was a must have along with a practical covered outdoor living space. 

The desire was to modernise the existing building and have the new additional compliment the traditional gable form of a typical kiwi rural home.

Design Features and Creative Solution:

A new gable form was designed for the addition connecting to the existing via a central entry link creating a focused axis point between the two main structures and allowing the addition to be perfectly oriented to the views. A macrocapra deck provides a welcoming approach to the front door. The extension is 600mm lower than the original house using the contour to connect perfectly to the exterior.  A common ceiling level gives the new structure a 3m stud height setting appropriate scale to the space. Cladding is solid plastered brick with the existing summit stone plastered to match.

A large verandah of macrocapra battened pergola concealing polycarbonate roofing provides shelter and shade.  Placed carefully on the eastern side for protection from the prevailing wind and as a connection to the landscape.

The verandah is supported on macrocapra wing walls repeating themselves around the addition providing support for slatted macrocapra shades sized and positioned on stainless steel brackets for optimum solar control.

Architraves and reveals are from locally milled macrocapra and compliment the sustainable Fijian kauri ceiling. An open log fire and inverter heat pumps support the passive solar design of a beautiful polished slab fully insulted for excellent thermal mass. A Corian topped kitchen with full walk in pantry completes the living interior.

The existing fully renovated structure with new aluminium joinery gives a harmonious connection with the addition. A parents retreat at the end of the house provides a luxurious haven well separate from the main living areas

Imagine Architecture
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Kereru Lodge
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Kereru Lodge
Kereru Lodge
BEFORE

Professionals used in
Kereru Lodge

About the
Professional

Imagine Architecture (formerly Imagine Building Design) is a multi-award-winning architectural design practice established in 2002, specialising in residential and commercial design. With over two decades of experience and more than 1,000 commissions completed, we pride ourselves on delivering high-performance, innovative, and sustainable designs that positively impact lives.

Our journey began in a humble shoebox home office, evolved into historic premises at the Kings Building in New Plymouth, and later to a sleek downtown studio. Now, we have returned to a more personal approach with small studio setups: Tony Biesiek operates out of a studio suite in in Tauranga, while Steven Dixon leads our New Plymouth studio. This agile setup allows us to better serve clients across New Zealand and beyond, with projects extending to Australia and Italy.

At Imagine Architecture, our mission is simple yet profound: “Changing lives through great architecture & design.” We aim to create beautiful, functional spaces that harmonise aesthetics, energy efficiency, and comfort while fostering a deeper connection to the environment. To achieve this, we integrate Passive House principles, with Tony Biesiek’s certification as a Passive House Designer ensuring our designs meet and exceed the highest standards of energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and thermal performance. This approach guarantees healthier, more comfortable spaces that consume significantly less energy while reducing environmental impact.

In addition to Passive House design, we embrace biophilic design principles, emphasising the integration of natural elements into our projects. We believe buildings should enhance occupants’ physical and mental well-being by fostering connections with nature, whether through natural light, ventilation, materials, or spatial relationships. Our commitment to sustainability aligns with Pritzker Prize-winning architect Glenn Murcutt’s philosophy of “touching the earth lightly.” We design in harmony with the land, crafting structures that respect and respond to their natural surroundings.

Our projects, regardless of size or budget, are rooted in a commitment to quality and performance. Meeting minimum building code standards is not our goal—exceeding them is. Whether designing a new architectural home, a commercial space, or a bespoke renovation, we focus on maximising functionality, environmental interaction, and energy efficiency without compromising on design excellence.

Our practice thrives on relationships. Many of our commissions come through referrals, reflecting our focus on creating strong connections with clients. Clear, open communication, combined with exceptional service and innovative design solutions, ensures we meet aesthetic, functional, and financial requirements while exceeding expectations.

Imagine Architecture operates on the belief that better choices lead to better buildings. We embrace cutting-edge high-performance technology and sustainable practices to deliver spaces that inspire, endure, and adapt to the changing needs of clients and the environment. From Bay of Plenty and Taranaki to international locations, geography is no barrier to architectural excellence.

If you are seeking innovative, energy-efficient, and environmentally conscious design paired with technical expertise and superior communication, Imagine Architecture is the experienced team to bring your vision to life. Together, we can create spaces that not only look extraordinary but also improve lives and respect the planet.