The Orangi Kaupapa Pavilion is perched adjacent to the iconic “45-degree house,” this 180m², three-bedroom residence was designed as a complementary partner to its striking black-clad neighbour. The vision was to create a unique, high-end home that harmonised with the challenging terrain while offering an elegant contrast in form, function, and materiality.

 

Where the 45-degree house features bold, cantilevered lines and northern glazing, this bespoke white-clad design embraced a softer approach. Its eastern-facing façade framed sweeping city views, while a sloping roofline wrapped gracefully down to the south. Dual fully glazed facades maximised light and views from both east and west, creating bright, airy interiors. The upper-level living spaces opened onto a sun-soaked deck, partially extending onto leased road reserve land—an innovative response to the site’s constraints.

 

Inside, the design catered to a vibrant family lifestyle. Expansive living and dining areas provided seamless indoor-outdoor flow for entertaining, while a private games room on the lower level served as a retreat for teenagers. A dramatic internal void connected the spaces, enhancing visual flow and offering moments of spatial drama. High-spec finishes and bespoke detailing elevated the home, embodying the ethos of refined modern living.

 

Despite the project’s architectural promise, it ultimately highlighted the challenges of bespoke construction on Wellington’s steep sites. Rising costs led to its reconsideration, inspiring a pivot toward modular solutions. This project became a critical learning moment for The Poneke Company, underscoring the importance of aligning innovative design with pragmatic construction methods.

 

The bespoke design remains an integral part of The Poneke Company’s journey—symbolising the transition from traditional architecture to a future of modular, scalable solutions that retain the spirit of innovation and beauty.