Waiheke Coastal: Slowcooked

By Ron Seeto Architect

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A gradual makeover on 2 Waiheke cottages working the slogan you see when you disembark the Kennedy point ferry- "Slow down- You are here". For an Architect who has designed and detailed one of the largest private Get-aways in New Zealand at Pink Beach Omaha this was a commission with a difference especially when the first question from the client was – is this project too small for you?
The happy outcome is an architectural engagement in true Island Time spanning over 3 years and continuing- one main idea a year slow cooked insertions to resuscitate a tired Lockwood and its Fibrolite neighbour – completed in time every year for the expatriate kiwi owners' annual 2 week visit over Christmas and the New Year.

The client stipulation was to retain and optimise opportunities presented by the 2 existing buildings rather than remove and replace; thus dictating a modest economy of scale and detail you see in traditional baches.

This simple design strategy meant resisting the temptation to be overly architectonic, use slicker construction details or expensive ostentatious materials so that the 2 renovated buildings can still be understood as a direct response to their humble beginnings- notwithstanding a few low key architectural features to prompt interest and conversation such as a translucent glass sliding wall nicknamed the "Ron-ster", a chain downpipe assembly, proprietary stainless steel rope balustrading in a hardwood frame.A cheerful and colourful seaside interior décor completes the picture of relaxed open seaside serenity – just the light bright Get-away from a wintry northern Hemisphere christmas season.

Ron Seeto Architect
Auckland
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Professionals used in
Waiheke Coastal: Slowcooked

Ron Seeto Architect
Ron Seeto Architect
Architects
- 2019

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About the
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Architecture infused with top industry experience - efficient home design - liveable spaces

Ron Seeto Architect, formerly MCP Auckland, specialises in creating liveable spaces which, "make your neighbours jealous" and are efficient in their use of space in the home design.

We have a particular interest and experience in efficient home design and pre-Crafted manufactured off-site building solutions where appropriate. For all our projects we are committed to the design and delivery of interior and exterior spaces that meet client requirements driven by these fundamentals -- efficient, purpose, aesthetics, budget, site, culture, social and environmental.

Born in Fiji and graduating with a Bachelor of Architecture with Honours from Auckland University, I have worked in New Zealand and the South Pacific – starting with Claude Megson and latterly Murray Cockburn.

I believe the dream project holds these elements -- innovation and practicality. Listening and collaboration. Enthusiasm and commitment. Trust and clarity between architect, client and consultants. Efficient home design making liveable spaces.

As every project is personal and unique, I do not work to a defined style or formula. Context and Contrast are important, not to mimic but be part of a place in a liveable community and the efficient use of space in home design is a goal.

We have designed a wide range of projects including residential - home design, commercial, and institutional, and have amassed special expertise in the residential, liturgical and the hotel/resort sectors.

I am proud to say that we have always been a referral business. Over 50% of our clients have been referred by existing clients.