About

Kokako Heights Whare.

ArchiPro Project Summary - Kokako Heights Whare: A harmonious blend of modern design and nature, featuring sustainable principles and breathtaking views, completed in 2024 for clients passionate about conservation and outdoor living.

Title:: Kokako Heights Whare
Architectural Designer:: Arkhē
Category:: Residential/; New Builds
Region:: Bay of Plenty, NZ
Completed:: 2024
Price range:: $0.5m - $1m
Building style:: Contemporary
Client:: Kevin and Clare Power
Photographers:: Hunter Studio

Located at the Matata Conservation Estate, the site enjoys abundant native vegetation and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, Moutohora Whale Island, and glimpses of Putauaki (Mount Edgecumbe) through the trees.

The clients - keen trampers and conservationists - tented on-site for over one year after walking the length of Aotearoa New Zealand, on the Te Araroa Trail, becoming intimate with living only with what is essential.

The design brief called for a measured response: shelter from the elements, seamless integration with the site, and direct access to the views, prioritising regard for the surroundings above all else. The design response consists of a modest-sized ensemble of structures arranged along the western and northern edges of the site, ensuring easy site access and optimal alignment with views and sunlight. The unique folded roof form—at times unassuming from ground level—gradually rises towards the east, where maximum sunlight is captured through a fully glazed corner and clerestory windows. The shed follows a similar principle, with its roof gently rising towards the western bank, mimicking the site's morphology.

The main dwelling is situated along the northern edge, maintaining visual access to the ocean and Moutohora Whale Island. On the eastern side, the main bedroom benefits from the apex ceiling height and abundant natural light. On the opposite end, the guest bedrooms interface with native bush. At the centre, the open-plan living area uses full-width sliding doors and a raking clerestory window to maximise engagement with the surrounding vistas.

Charred and brushed Japanese cedar cladding brings natural tactility to crucial areas. In contrast, robust metal cladding blends with the surrounding shades of green, subduing the building's presence against the native bush. Inside, the muted and often moody dark tones contrast with the golden hues of the striking birch plywood raking ceiling.

The modest footprint and passive design principles ensure minimal embodied and operational energy throughout the building's lifetime. Orientation and sun-shading provided by the verandah along the northern elevation deflect high-angle sun during the warm months while allowing the lower winter sun to heat the concrete flooring passively. The house also employs a highly efficient in-slab heating system as its only active heat source, combined with high-performance glass wool insulation and low-emission double glazing, minimising heating loads during the cold months without compromising thermal comfort. Generous windows, stackers, and ceiling fans ensure adequate natural ventilation during the warm months.

Completed in 2024.

See more.

Build by Karma Construction

Photos by Hunter Studio

Project Gallery

"The design brief called for a measured response: shelter from the elements, seamless integration with the site, and direct access to the views, prioritising regard for the surroundings above all else. The design response consists of a modest-sized ensemble of structures arranged along the western and northern edges of the site, ensuring easy site access and optimal alignment with views and sunlight. "

Views and Engagement

Products used

Bamboo X-treme DeckingPlantation Bamboo

SOLITEX EXTASANA® - Wall Weather Resistive BarrierPro Clima

ABI Elysian Basin MixerABI Interiors

ABI Eden Square Kitchen MixerABI Interiors

Classique Birch Pre | Wall & Ceiling LiningsPlymasters

SOLITEX MENTO® 1000 - Roof Weather Resistive BarrierPro Clima

Professionals used

ArkhēArchitectural Designers

COLORSTEEL®Manufacturers and Suppliers

Plantation BambooManufacturers and Suppliers

ABI InteriorsManufacturers and Suppliers

Pro ClimaManufacturers and Suppliers

WEATHERTIGHTNESS SOLUTIONS

AIRTIGHTNESS SOLUTIONS

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WEATHERTIGHTNESS SOLUTIONS

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PlymastersManufacturers and Suppliers

Arkhē

Architectural Designers

Papamoa, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty

arkhe.co.nz

Arkhē. Arkhē is a residential architecture studio based in Tauranga, New Zealand, focused on designing homes that respond to people and place. Our work spans rural, coastal, and urban settings, with each project shaped by its environment and the lives it holds. We believe good architecture is honest, restrained, and enduring — enhancing everyday life while treading lightly on the land. Our approach is collaborative, thoughtful, and grounded in context, aiming to create spaces that feel natural and necessary. From concept to completion, we offer a full suite of architectural and interior design services across Aotearoa New Zealand.