Living beneath the canopy
Mangawhai Retreat sits within a sheltered coastal forest where mature trees and dense vegetation shape both privacy and outlook. The architecture doesn’t compete with this landscape. The building is carefully positioned so the surrounding bush remains the dominant presence, with openings that frame glimpses of the canopy and allow soft, filtered light to move through the interior.
Outdoor areas extend the living spaces into the landscape, encouraging a relaxed rhythm of living closely connected to nature. The result is a home that balances openness with seclusion, a retreat that feels genuinely immersed in its environment while maintaining a clear, composed architectural form.
Nu Wall aluminium cladding supports this ambition: a durable exterior that requires minimal attention, allowing the bush to take centre stage year after year.




























