This year's issue of Defign magazine looks at some of the top recent designs from ADNZ members. One of those featured is the 'Marina Point' house in Denarau, Fiji, which was designed by Greg Young of Young Architects. It's the first ever international winner in the ADNZ | Resene Architectural Design Awards.
This Pacific beauty is full of charm. It's based on contemporary bach aesthetic along with a good measure of traditional design, and a bit of help from the locals. The pictures speak for themselves - this house is total luxury.
It was designed for two families seeking an island getaway on an idyllic site at Denarau, on the western coast of Viti Levu.
From the outside, it appears to be made up of a series of four simple bures - the traditional wood and straw huts found across Fiji and the Pacific. However, these are made of plastered concrete, complemented by a pool overlooking the ocean and surrounded by tropical planting. For each of the two familes, there are separate living areas, along with a shared space. These areas are linked by timber boardwalks, giving the feel of a private resort.
The inside is equally impressive, with stunning views, native timbers, woven mats, island motifs and vivid earthy tones.
"The environment is critical," explains, Greg. "You need the openness because of the temperature but it also has to be comfortable, both physically and emotionally. The inside is where you have all the texture, the warmth and the relaxing, welcoming aesthetic."
Greg's done a wonderful job of creating a modern, locally influenced home in such a popular region of Fiji dominated by western-style resorts and holiday houses that look like they belong on the Gold Coast.
For the full story on Greg's design, purchase your copy of Defign now. It's available at Countdown, New World and Relay Bookstores, for a full list of distributors click here. If you would like to order a carton of magazines you can contact the ADNZ head office on phone (03) 358 0112 or email on reception@adnz.org.nz.
