Parihoa by Pattersons Associates in Muriwai, New Zealand

Project: Parihoa
Architects: Pattersons Associates
Location: Muriwai, New Zealand
Area: 5,080 sq ft
Photography: Simon Devitt

Parihoa by Pattersons Associates

The Parihoa house is an impressive single-story building located in Muriwai, New Zealand. It sits on a small hill surrounded by beautiful greenery on all sides, giving the house stunning views. The project was designed by Pattersons Associates—the same studio that created the Seascape Retreat in Canterbury and the Local Rock House in Auckland, which we recently featured.

The ancient castle archetype as a fort or outpost is rarely realized in the modern world. This New Zealand farm project explores this type, combining strength and protection.

The landscape was not altered except for the shape of the building itself. Wind and sea fog thunder from the ocean 60 meters below, while the form shelters the inner courtyard from the harsh coastal elements. The result is a protection of that same environment.

A simple strategy of formal contrasts, such as converging and expanding walls, creates diverse spatial experiences within the building. The entrance to the lobby is guarded by a grille to keep out sheep, and some perimeter sections can also pivot.

The house is organized as a series of spaces connected by an internal courtyard and secret doors. Forms and figures appear randomly placed but hint at history and a sense of overcome time. Long views through the protected courtyard extend to the horizon where sky and ocean open above and below, revealing the full scope of the panorama.

– Pattersons Associates