Whanganui Awa, Gonville - Whanganui
The main design was for simple plantings as a quiet frame to the majestic Whanganui Awa (river).
The home is a historic Maori Land Courthouse, previously relocated to the site, with much of the decking and surrounding construction using recycled materials from Whanganui demolition. The goal was to retain all existing structures adding low maintenance plantings to create better recreational areas. A (drained) retaining wall with seating was added to hold the bank. Salvaged wood (including burnt sleepers) from the site were used to terrace the slope with the predominant plantings Mountain Flax, Toitoi and Tussock grasses.
Sauna Terrace
Facing the Whanganui Awa (river) the focus is the changing tides and landscape. With high south west winds an old fence and sleepers were added and mixed native grasses, Mountain Flax and Hebe were added to bringing texture and movement while staying at a medium height to retain views.
Walkway
This walkway was subsiding to the rear as soil washed down the steep bank. This left a hazardous gap behind the concrete slabs, shifting them forward.
The rear section was dug out and treated sleepers were added to stop soil loss under the walkway. The whole structure was reinforced with bolts to the existing frame and the concrete slabs are now fixed in place between treated sleepers.
Sheltered Shower Area
The area behind the sauna is sheltered from prevailing winds and the intense summer sun. Here an outside shower and informal levels were added. The reclaimed sleepers were planted into to create a lush and tropical private area to cool off after a sauna.
