Thornton House — Arkhē Architecture

Located in Thornton, just outside Whakatāne, this site enjoys a north-facing aspect with direct views of Whale Island. The design response is a modern pavilion plan with large floating eaves and expansive glazing to engage with the views.

Located in Thornton, just outside Whakatāne, this site enjoys a north-facing aspect with direct views of Whale Island. The design contended with a different challenge: how to approach design in a large paddock.

The response consists of a long, modern pavilion where all living spaces face north, capturing the views while oversized raking eaves provide both shade and optimal natural light.

Profiled metal cladding and a pragmatic approach to spatial planning nod to the rural vernacular, reinterpreting the language of farm outbuildings through a modern architectural lens.