This Ensuite was created as a retreat for the occupants and located adjacent to the Master Bedroom.  Spatial planning and careful reconfiguration has given the homeowners of this five bedroom home, two additional bathrooms and a light filled and spacious layout.

Texture, movement and warmth is injected into this retreat with the choice of stone tiles and a dark oak stained vanity.  The linear grooves in the oak link the modern elements to the existing character of the routed doors throughout the home.

Natural light is introduced with the addition of a new opening skylight window.  At night the bespoke black steel mirrors are backlit with led lights that push light upwards to frame the outline of the attic space.

Phase two of this extensive renovation was to create a family bathroom that was functional and sophisticated for visitors and reflected the quality of this home.

Marble subway tiles are installed vertically and are individually mitred at the point of contact with the sloping attic roof.  

The freestanding bath is located beneath an existing skylight window providing an opportunity to bathe under the stars when opened.

This Laundry was redesigned to improve the layout of the existing laundry and to install a shower and toilet that is accessible when the owners are entertaining and when guests are using the outdoor pool.

The simple addition of white painted barn doors with matte black hardware made the space functional as well as adding to the character of this large family home.

Finally, the black and white geometric flooring creates a visual impact in an otherwise restrained space.

Phase one of the refurbishment to the onsite restaurant at Manukau Institute of Technology began with a commission to create bespoke lighting in triple height space reaching 7 metres at its highest point.  

The inspiration for these organic shapes that float in space was loosely based on the palm tree fronds that previously filled the restaurant.

Five large scale sculptural forms (2.2metres in length) were made possible using the technology of a seamless mesh product created by Kaynemaile.

The mesh product is produced from a single polymer material and is fully recyclable.  Kaynemaile has the significant benefit of zero manufacturing waste due to the unique injection-moulding process used in its production.

The Restaurant's signature element is now the translucent, asymmetrical 'clouds' that float around the the lights hovering delicately above the diners.

Photography by Pac Doc "Rocky" 

Creating an elegant solution for the Master Ensuite within a complex room shape, was the beginning of discussions and my design ideas for this home.  

The option of nestling the freestanding bath within the wet area, was a well deliberated discussion.  As the project unfolded the relationship became one of mutual trust and affection.

Partway through the build the homeowner told me that she was lying in bed with the Ensuite door open just looking at the beautiful tiles, as she loved them so much.  As a Designer, this was breathtaking and the reason I love what I do.

The result is a luxurious bathroom with a gentle nod to the Industrial.  

Once again, a complete privilege to be able to show you this uplifting space and a delight to have been a part of creating this sanctuary.

Photography by "Rocky" Pac Doc

Manukau Institute of Technology in South Auckland is staffed by dedicated professionals with their "People & Culture" team going through immense change including a complete refurbishment of their tired and dated 300sqm workspace.

The bespoke joinery in the form of a geometric plywood wall at the entrance of the workspace creates a sense of place and injects a modern warmth that is both dramatic and restrained.  The reception desk is sculptural and continues the geometries that inspired the design.

This project saw the onsite Facilities Management Team completely demolish the existing interior removing not just walls but an in-built safe installed in the 1970s to secure the wages in a time where people were paid in cash.

The open-plan workspace is divided up with greenery atop modern filing units.  Spaces are diverse, as is the workforce including a variety of options to work away from the desks.  Stacking doors are used to reveal three meeting rooms that can be formed in to one large one meaning the whole team can now meet and plan ahead.

Architecturally designing the transformation, spatial planning and collaborating with numerous suppliers and tradespeople made this project both complex and rewarding.   Project managing the soft-fit out for the entire office including selection of fabrics, furniture and finishes completed my involvement.  The People & Culture Director had a clear vision from the beginning of the project,  and it was a privilege to realise this for her and the committed team.