Set in Puketāpapa, on a compact 180 square-metre section, this project quietly challenges a changing suburban landscape. Once lined with 1940s state houses, the area is now punctuated by the two-storey whites and greys of newer developments.

Roseman Whare embraces infill density but in a way that captures the personality of its family. It is reflective of individuality and was designed as a simple refusal to add another same-same build to the city’s development, despite managing a tight budget.

From an entrance porch that makes you want to pop in and say hi, Roseman Whare is an exercise in bespoke simplicity and the end result is a family home that is a unique, cost-effective and filled with light, colour, and warmth. Elevated just high enough above the street to subtly enable two-levels, the design nestles itself above and around a sculpted elevation change that allows the lower-level main living spaces to open fully to the sun while creating privacy from the street and surrounding neighbours. In doing so, it forms a quiet outdoor courtyard that extends the experience of the interior.

Led by our favourite colour consultant, the interior spaces are brought to life through layered tones of orange, pink, and deep green. It is a joyful and beautiful blend of mid-century meets Japanese sensibility boxed within durable and low maintenance kiwi Coloursteel. Recycled Critical CleanStone materials and extensive DIY tiling bring texture, conscience and love to the interior.

This house is much more than an alternative to the neighbourhood developments. More thoughtful. More private. More functional. And far more loved.