Tauwhare, Waikato

The brief was to provide a new wharekai and kitchen for Tauwhare Marae.

The roof form of the new wharekai and kitchen building was designed pitching away from the marae atea and wharenui, to ensure that the building does not become a dominant form as you approach the marae atea and whare nui.

Use of brick veneer at a low level provides a robust cladding system at the base, while the weatherboard cladding above provides a contrast.

High level opening windows allow for morning sunlight and natural ventilation throughout the wharekai.

The large verandah along the east side provides cover and shade for those outside, while assisting to keep the inside of the building cool.