Informed simplicity - the principle of conveying a design solution without emphasising the difficulties it has surmounted - is the concept undergirding our new project in the Hunua Ranges.

Surrounded by abundant native bush on its Southern quadrant, a mountain range on the Northern and idyllic frame views of the Ness Valley to the West, the place called for an unobtrusive structure - one that sat with respect for its context. The clients' brief: a DOC hut-like building, utilitarian in nature, to provide shelter for visiting friends and hikers to explore the surroundings and experience new ways of inhabiting beyond conventional suburban dwellings.

The form, the materials and colour palette aimed to integrate the building to the variegated bushline. The plywood lined interior expresses the robust quality found in the DOC huts. The organisation of the spaces sustain a visual connection with the bush and valley whilst also providing flexibility to its users.

More to come.