Simplicity And Elegance
Darren Jessop has established a reputation for innovative, distinct style and restrained elegance of design that is clean, distinctive and functional. Within the practice emphasis is placed on “hands on” involvement and personal client contact to ensure that they provide a successful end result to each project.
Darren’s work has been recognised by a number of major architectural awards.
Jessop Architects was established in September 2001. Formally known as Jessop Townsend Architects for 12 years, our new practice is situated in Parnell, Auckland. The practice concentrates on a variety of projects including residential, commercial, hospitality and interior design.”
DESIGN BRIEF:TOZER HOUSE
An island retreat to escape the pressures of working in the city, open plan with simple lines and no fuss was the starting point for this project. The clients lived in Mt Eden, Auckland, had a passion for art, entertaining and design. This new retreat was to reflect their life away from work.
The planning of this home needed careful attention to existing trees and sunlight. A single block wall from the front door angle acts as the circulation spine separating rooms from the glass curtain wall, which slides back into cavity walls allowing the pool area to come inside.
In addition, polished concrete floors where chosen over other softer materials for its energy efficiency with heat transmittal from afternoon sun. Each of the three half levels are connected by half flights of open tread stairs, making the pool area only a quick exit from living areas. It was important to the brief for private open space, such as the pool area not to be disconnected from the kitchen, living, dining. From the kitchen both walls slide back allowing the island bench to float in the room between views North and South.
Material selections, although modern needed to reflect the honesty of the Island. To this, concrete floors are complemented by timber strip floors. The external cladding of corrugated iron, cedar weatherboards and concrete block, tones in with the surrounding batch like structures on the island.
Finally, the brief called for an understanding of art. Both furniture and art play an important part of this house; consideration of walls for art, placement, furniture sizing and colour needed special attention.