Description:

Whareroa house is a retreat for a busy family, and at times a meeting place for extended family and friends to gather, fish and enjoy a slower pace of life.

The building is a triangular shaped form tucked into the hillside, picking up on the angles and orientation of the shape of the site. The spaces open out to the north and to the native forest to the west, with glimpses of the lake to the east.
Light stalks penetrate through a living roof on top, scooping light down deep into the plan on gloomier days. At night, the stalks animate the living roof above, washing light from the spaces below. The living roof also provides an attractive elevation for passers by, walking the track that traverses through the bush behind the site.

The brief was for a warm cosy house, both in atmosphere and appearance, referencing fond childhood memories spent holidaying in lakeside trout fishing huts of the past.