By Material Creative
A simple interior for a complex life.
A calming palette, lots of spaces to gather, and great flow were part of the design brief for the renovation of a two storey, five bedroom 1960s home overlooking Waitematā Harbour in Te Atatū South.
Our clients have a busy lifestyle, running their own businesses and raising three young children. They wanted a home that contrasted sharply with their everyday lives, a family home that’s serene and clutter-free, but is also a place that’s welcoming and relaxed.
The meaning of Te Atatū - the just after dawn, inspired the home. Outside, the house is dark as night, with sharp angles, dark timber and black joinery, and a cladding of rich rust brick. Inside, the home feels dawn-like, airy, tranquil and light-filled.
“I didn’t want a lot of colour. I prefer a limited palette and less visual noise but I still wanted interesting. Being reliant on tactile textures and the juxtaposition of forms and furnishings to give the spaces the right energy.” - EB (Client)
To complement the era of the Te Atatū home and reference the calm Japanese aesthetic, the use of timber throughout was a top priority. New engineered oak floors connect the spaces, while the kitchen cabinetry is made with Shinnoki Walnut. A sweeping curved wall in the entranceway was one of the original architectural features. To highlight it, we applied a soft plastered render bringing more tonal texture to the home. Earthy tones, layers of texture, and mixed materials ensure the spaces feel warm, relaxed and comfortable.
We are interior designers with a strong architectural sensibility, dedicated to enhancing everyday environments and contributing to better quality of life. Since our launch in 2009, we have focused on creating beautiful and unexpected design to bring people together and demand attention, which has earned us an award winning reputation both nationally and internationally.