Description:

The client has a large family, with seven children & a growing number of grandchildren. The home was to suitably accommodate large numbers of holidaying family & it was important to the client that the home reflected the family in a luxurious, sophisticated way, with subtle nods to their NZ heritage & the Fijian locale. The client wanted the home to sit naturally within the landscape of the Vunabaka development, whilst being distinctly different, and unique from the other residences surrounding them. The interiors were to have a strong connection to the landscape & reflect the home’s position between the rainforest and the beach. Colour was expected to be used vibrantly & boldly throughout.

The residence blends modern luxury with traditional island sentiment, a muted palette of luxurious base materials, grounds the home within the environment, highlighting the natural tones and textures prevalent in Fiji. Furniture, soft furnishing, and lighting, bring rich colour to the forefront reflecting the homes positioning between beachside sunsets and luscious tropical forest. Weaves, carved details, and textures further celebrate the local vernacular, with the home embodying tropical opulence. The home offers every opportunity to immerse oneself in the lush natural surroundings throughout the span of the day, across a well-balanced mix of social and private spaces, both indoor and out.

The custom leathered travertine floor was an early decision in the home & set the foundation for the material decisions that followed. The materials were selected for their lustre, tone & texture, it was crucial that they shone in their own right, whilst providing the perfect backdrop for vivid colour to be layered over the top. Materials endemic to Fiji such as swamp raintree & magi magi were used where appropriate, as were materials such as Oamaru stone in a subtle nod to NZ. The single most important detail was the carved faces to the joinery throughout, embellished with patterns designed by local iTaukei artists, the inclusion of the carving adding a depth to the layers of the home.

It was important that the house reflected its Fijian locale and to this extent we engaged local artisans and designed several bespoke pieces for the home. Working closely with local artisans and locally available materials, allowed the custom elements to be designed, and executed through close collaboration to seamlessly integrate into the furnishings, lighting & cabinetry throughout. Twin benches align each side of the entrance loggia, the artisans hand seen in the carving, as well as in the soft, rustic nature of the turned raintree tables which adorn the outdoor spaces. Combining carefully curated contemporary fittings with textured natural elements give a rich layering to this residence.