Picton House
For those who aren’t familiar, will you tell us about your practice?
The practice is focused on small scale, quality projects. I'm interested in embedding buildings into our landscapes in a modest way, using natural materials. I believe the best pieces of architecture live as built anachronism's- untraceable by time.
Can you tell us a bit about the Picton House?
The Picton house is one of my first commissions. It was an opportunity to explore ideas I’ve gathered, and project the type of architecture I think is important - smaller and more human in scale, simple in form. In a practical sense, it was a way to spend more time on site and study construction methods in the flesh.
What’s your approach to Architecture?
I believe the spaces and buildings we create need to warrant their construction, by adding to the built environment. To achieve that means taking a rigorous and careful approach to each project. I try hard to produce innovative solutions, instead of predictable ones.
What was your approach to materials & finishes?
We left most materials throughout the project 'unfinished' wherever possible. We chose to express certain parts of the building fabric, like the inside skins of the SIP walls- instead of lining them- we have painted them a Murky green, to layer them against the surrounding native bush & save on unnecessary linings
What is the idea of the rainscreen cladding?
The rainscreen is a secondary layer to the building, shielding the main envelope. The cedar boards continue past the apex of the roof, forming the roof terrace barrier. Having one material enveloping the whole building keeps it non fussy, and allowed us to conceal all the flashings and untidy bits required by the building code. The facade will slowly weather and settling into its surroundings
How is your project considering sustainability?
I think the true test of sustainability is the lifespan of the building & the enjoyment of its users within that time. In a practical sense we only built what was necessary. In terms of materiality, using SIP's walls & roof panels meant we reduced a huge amount of waste. The house was orientated for passive solar gains, and is meant to be operated manually for cross ventilation, this means it requires very little in terms of heating and cooling.
What’s your idea of good architecture?
Doing more with less. lets face it, in New Zealand building is expensive- so we need to be able to use common materials in unique and innovative ways to achieve exciting solutions.
Are you working with craftspeople, architects, and/or creatives that you’d like to mention?
Since 2014 I've been working with Architect Jarrod Midgley, he is a relentless worker, problem solver- and talented designer. Often surpassing clients expectations. He has a fluid and organic process that has been great to be a part of and learn from.
What is the Picton house?
The house is somewhat of a knee jerk reaction to the indulgent and flabby housing that has plagued New Zealand for a while now. the project is distilled and modest in its plan, scale and appearance. Its a new breed of housing that places design and quality at the forefront, and disengages the 'bigger is better' mentality. Its the sort of Architecture we like.
