Onehunga Studio, NZ

Onehunga Studio: Stevens Lawson Architects Photographed by Mark Smith The building is located in Onehunga overlooking the Manukau Harbour and is the home and studio for an artist. Two black timber blocks are separated by a rusty steel door. The blank facade, with its illusion of a two dimensional painting, masks a light filled angular interior space and verandah. The large room functions as a painting studio, a living area and a garage for the owner’s prized vintage motor cycle (the owner has a zen-like philosophy of minimal possessions). A wall ten metres long and four metres high illuminated with southern light is the focus for painting and exhibiting. A simple kitchen, bathroom and storeroom complete the ground floor, while the bedroom is upstairs with a private terrace and dramatic view. The forms and materials of the house reference New Zealand rural and vernacular architecture and have a synergy with the artist’s enthusiasm for New Zealand’s history. The house embodies the image of the artist as a “man alone”. Completed 2005 Stevens Lawson Architects - New Zealand houses featured Cox’s Bay House Hobson Bay House Herne Bay House Hot Water Beach House Omaha House Onehunga House Onehunga Studio Tamahere House Modern House New Zealand Houses