Winning constructions

Wiroa Beach Lodges. Photo / Supplied.

All over Auckland exhibitions, workshops, films, lectures and children's activities are taking place to celebrate Auckland Architecture Week and last night the region's best architecture was celebrated with the annual Auckland Architecture Awards. Here we share images of some of the winners and the judges' comments.

Compson Bach
Herbst Architects Ltd
A covered outdoor deck, sun court, kitchen and seating areas transform a standard linear plan into individual spaces suited to summer holidays. Block piers and double timber posts hold delicate trusses that provide a structural rhythm that reinforces the individual living spaces. Translucent walls enclose private terraces that focus views on beautiful ridgelines rather than joining the jostling for water views. At every step this is architecture of unexpected beauty and rich simplicity.

Hall Houses
Gerrad Hall Architects
Two live-work units turn the disadvantages of a long narrow site into advantages, particularly in regard to outlook. The varied views are put to good effect to give a different internal character to the two units. The dialogue between exposed concrete structural panels and natural materials enliven the exterior form and interior spaces. The project offers proof the maligned cross lease solution does work in the hands of a good architect.

Mann House
BVN Architecture
Sitting on the edge of the vast Pacific, this simple house - a kind of primitive platform - succeeds in articulating itself inside and out in the presence of what is an overwhelming, wonderful landscape. In the Miesian Murcutt tradition the structure remains in its elemental state and is enclosed with metal sheeting reminiscent of the original settlers' agricultural buildings.

Ironbank
RTA Studio
This work of international standard is entirely appropriate to the unique and eclectic context of Karangahape Rd. Bold architectural manoeuvres deliver the client's programme, while the rigorous attention to detail further enchants the eye.

Narrow Neck
Mitchell & Stout Architects
This house was conceived as three separate dwelling units designed for flexibility to accommodate an elderly parent, grandchildren and frequent guests, as well as allowing the owners to work from home. Inspired by the old concrete fortifications along the coastline as well as the spirit of Le Corbusier, the architects abandoned traditional timber construction and experimented with the possibilities of in situ and precast concrete. By bringing in natural light from all sides, along with timber accents and tile floors, the interior spaces are realised as intimate rooms taking in and responding to the views beyond.

Wiroa Station Beach Lodge
Modern Architecture Partners
This shared seaside facility allows users to enjoy a base at the beach regardless of the location of their houses within the development. Three Miesian framed boxes set on a large floating deck provide a kitchen, bathroom, eating area, sunbathing deck and barbecue facility adjacent to the beach. The timber and steel material palette has been lent a variety of treatments to add texture, colour and rhythm to the simplicity of the geometry of row boxes. The simple, restrained execution allows the user to focus on the beauty of the surrounding environment.

Wiroa Station Wine Cellar
Modern Architecture Partners
Immediately accessible in terms of the design origins, this seductive folly responds well to both site and brief. The impeccably detailed cellar provides the perfect setting for bacchanalian delights.

Riddell Rd House
Pete Bossley Architects Ltd
A magnificent site overlooking Brown's Island and a central atrium are this house's twin highlights. Entering the atrium, the harbour view is spied through door openings and high glazing before your gaze shifts to timber clad curving volumes and bridges. Moving through to the living spaces the view returns but is deepened by a row of broad columns along the front of the house. The architect has astutely advised the client to temper the panoramic view with varied spaces to create a home, not a viewing terrace.

•For information about Auckland Architecture Week events go to www.architectureweek.co.nz