Description:

This Papakainga Housing project, situated amidst the breathtaking landscape of Te Teko, New Zealand, transcends the traditional concept of home. It is a vibrant celebration of community, culture, and connection to nature. Designed to support 100 occupants, our vision is to foster a harmonious living environment equipped with communal spaces such as a shared kitchen, workshop, music hall, and rooftop gardens. These facilities are designed to enhance working, eating, playing, relaxing, and participating in hangi gatherings, rekindling the communal bonds once common in traditional societies, where living was not confined to isolated units.

The architectural form and spatial layout of the Papakainga project are deeply inspired by two defining features of the local environment: the Rangitaiki River and Mount Putauaki. Our design philosophy aims to integrate these natural elements seamlessly into the project, reflecting our respect for the natural world. This approach aligns with the traditional Māori value of working in harmony with the landscape, not against it, to create architecture that truly belongs to its place. This principle, deeply rooted in Māori culture, guides our design to ensure that the development is not only situated in the environment but is a part of it.

Our Papakainga design fosters an interconnected community, encouraging residents to build strong relationships through interaction. Recognizing that humans are just one part of the natural world, our design also integrates with the local landscape, mountains, and rivers, creating architecture that truly belongs to this place.