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 Architects

Modern House

Stevens Lawson Architects

New Zealand houses

World Architecture : e-architect - a guide to key buildings across the globe

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Onehunga Studio - page : adrian welch / isabelle lomholt