Waimataruru is an award-winning, sustainable, timber-framed home located on the northeastern side of the Coromandel Peninsula in New Zealand, near Ōtama Beach. The house is designed by Pac Studio and Kristina Pickford Design and is harmoniously integrated into the natural landscape, following the slope of the land and surrounded by regenerating native forest. The home's architecture features a single sloping roof and uses materials such as weathered timbers, Shou Sugi Ban cladding, lime plaster walls, and waxed steel elements, reflecting both the northern beach and southern forest environments. The name "Waimataruru" comes from the local Ngati Hei iwi, combining "Waimata," the name of the stream running through the property, and "ruru," the native owl frequently present around the house. The property spans 10 hectares of steep, hilly terrain, and the house is positioned to maximize framed views like vignettes rather than broad panoramas, blending seamlessly into the surroundings. Its design emphasizes environmental sustainability, with features like off-grid capabilities, passive solar energy, rainwater harvesting, and a replanting program aimed at restoring the native biodiversity of the land. This residence is celebrated as a dynamic, low- carbon dream home that connects indoor and outdoor spaces fluidly, responding well to the area's varied weather conditions, and supports both ecological restoration and artistic expression through its thoughtfully curated interiors and artworks from local artists.
