We hope you enjoyed the breathtaking Kawakawa House by Herbst Architects. Nestled along Auckland's coastline at the base of a mountain slope, this extraordinary home is a heartfelt ode to nature. Inspired by the pōhutukawa trees and the Tasman Sea below, Kawakawa House masterfully integrates architectural elegance with the raw beauty of its surroundings. Kawakawa House was recently featured in Habitats: City, Coast and Forest, our trio of hardcover books. For more of the latest and greatest in architecture and design, be sure to order a copy now: thelocalproject.com.au/product/habitats-city-coast-forest/
How can you say your construction is connected to nature? Nature has no right angles straight lines. This architecture is not connected it is standing out of it. Typically western civilisated word. I don’t see humility, warmth, happiness, playfulness, creativity. It’s designed like all the modern „cube buildings“. The only difference is more woodn materials and more luxury. For only a few people possible to afford it. It’s cutting, cold, transparent. The only positive I see, feel from it is clearity. But what is clearity without connection? We need a cultural revolution and especially in architecture. For this man needs to go down from his high horse on his knees. Feel Touch kiss breath Mother Earth and realise that we are part of her…
I always love it when architects appreciate the beauty of the location and know exactly how to blend the house into it. The wider area is as much of a home as the building is, in my opinion. This whole project looks incredible
It must be so rewarding as an architect when a client walks in the door bringing with them a stunning block of land, an open mind and very deep pockets.
I use this channel for calming meditation. Everything is so stunning: the nature, the building design, the high production value, the music, the architect’s voice. Ahhhh, bliss.
Another beauty, with a pitch-perfect overview by the architect. His use of simple, clear words (material, not materiality) and poet-level insights and observations make this a joy to watch.
Lance really does have a gift for articulating the design process in such an accessible and poetic way. We’re thrilled you enjoyed the video and his overview. It’s always a joy to share stories like this one!
Thank you so much for your kind words! This project was truly special, and we’re thrilled it left such a peaceful and captivating impression. Appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts.
I remember stumbling upon Piha Beach back in 2017. I had just flown into Auckland from Dubai and had approximately 15hrs to waste. So I decided at the last minute to rent a car and head west, out of the city looking for a beautiful beach to catch the sunset. The winding road took me down to Piha Beach and to this day it's one of the more memorable spontaneous travel experiences I've ever hand. It's really special to see Piha Beach pop back up in my feed... and in connection with such a lovely home! It really does beautifully embrace of the surrounding environment!!
Thank you for sharing such a wonderful story, Piha Beach truly leaves a lasting impression and we’re so glad this home brought those memories back. It really does embrace the magic of its surroundings beautifully!
That’s exactly what we hoped to capture - the intimate connection between the home and its incredible setting. It really does feel like a love letter to this special spot on Earth. We’re so glad it resonated with you!
Australia could take a leaf from this natured inspired design! Beach houses must take second stage to nature and its surroundings!!! Truly sophisticated and inspiring ❤❤❤
The timing of the song, the video clips and the narrative/story is just so perfect and incredible. The cinematography and the direction is this video is 🔥🔥🔥
It’s really great to hear how much you appreciated the flow of the video - the team puts a lot of thought into every detail to bring the story to life. Glad it resonated with you, and we’re pumped you enjoyed it! 🔥
Couldn’t agree more - this house has such a unique, alive quality to it. Definitely one of those designs that stays with you. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Thank you, Pier! Our team works so hard to capture the essence of each home, and it’s always great to hear that the cinematography enhances the story. This house definitely deserved the spotlight!
Appreciate your comment! It really is a beautifully considered design, and Herbst Architects have done an incredible job of balancing the home with its surroundings. Thanks for watching!
I love how lance explained the technical details in a way that facilitated the storytelling of what makes the special so those outside the trade can still appreciate it, excellent storytelling!
It's all so incredibly beautiful. The local project seems to find these inspiring homes that defy convention, yet seem so elegantly livable. Poetic architecture.
Absolutely agree Salo - the way this home integrates with its surroundings is something special. Herbst Architects really nailed it with this one. Thanks for watching!
this is such a beautiful feature. i met my boyfriend (who‘s gonna be my husband one day) in new zealand (we‘re both from europe so it‘s kinda special) and our first adventure was driving to piha beach with my freshly bought camper-car while barely knowing each other so this video brings back all the memories and makes it even more beautiful for me/us! thank you local project for always putting so much effort into capturing architecture and landscape in a wonderful way.
Thank you for sharing such a beautiful and personal story! It’s amazing how architecture and landscapes can evoke special memories. We’re so glad this video resonated with you and brought back those moments. Wishing you and your boyfriend all the best for your future adventures (and wedding one day)!
Stunning. The contrast of dark and lighter woods and metals is a welcomed change from the usual. The light play with all the glass must be amazing all day long. Wonderful work!
Thank you! We're thrilled you enjoyed the video. Our team puts a lot of effort into capturing the beauty of these homes, and it's great to hear the camera work stood out.
Lovely house and great video but I almost want another video tour showing off more of the houses in a walkthrough style. Maybe a second channel? I just have no idea what the bedrooms and bathrooms look like and would love to see more.
This is one of the most incredible houses I have ever experienced. The details are superb (the interior railing, the fireplace surround, the glass shower panel. The purposely framed views (can only imagine sitting in bed looking out, and up, at the trees). Absolutely stunning. Thank you.
This video has been quite unique for me... because I know the architect, Lance Herbst. I was at school with you in Newlands when we were kids in SA. My name is Michael W_____r. Such a good experience to see the home that you built, which I really like, and such a beautiful location. Take care of yourself, and thanks Local Project for featuring Lance's work. 👍😃
What a small world! How incredible that you and Lance go way back. We're thrilled you enjoyed the video and the home; it's truly a testament to Lance's talent and the beautiful location.
Very stuning house and beautiful location. Also the cinematography is wonderful and breathtaking, thankful that these videos of yours are free to watch, never stop this lovely content :)
Stunning. Almost perfect. I say almost because the bookshelf is getting blasted with sunlight and sunlight is the second biggest enemy of books just after water. So it's a big ooff 😅
Just absolutely magnificent in every way. The love and talent that went into this home is so evident. Dreaming it but then executing it so carefully to protect the site. Thank you for capturing and sharing this masterpiece. I could just imagine being there and watching the shadow and moonlight.
Absolutely mesmerized by the cinematography in this video! The soothing color grading, seamless camera movements, and immersive portrayal of nature create a visual symphony that feels like a serene escape. Truly a masterpiece of storytelling through visuals!
i love the way he described all the specific things about the house. so passionate and make us feel how it feels to live in the house itself. the view, the circulation, every particular things been plan so detail. what a perfect house to live at the seashore.
This is one of the most Instagrammable/Pinterested beach houses around. I am glad we got a story told about it by the architect and the Local Project making it possible!
Thanks for sticking with us! 😊 We’re thrilled to be back, and it’s great to know we were missed. Plenty more exciting projects coming your way this year - hope they’re worth the wait!
I love how the home is nestled among the trees, allows wind and light to easily flow through the home, and fits so perfectly among the trees. It's a beautiful home and a great location.
Both my inner photographer and my inner bookish hermit are yelling that they want to live here. Part of why I love my home is the nature right outside my door. There's certain times during certain seasons where I just go out on my porch and just sit there appreciating it. It's lovely to see more homes designed around that nowadays instead of big imposing buildings that clash with the landscape.
Wish it lingered more when exploring the rest of the home. Like 30 seconds spent on the home walkthrough, and 5 minutes of looking at vegetation. That shower door was so cool!
Happy New Year, everyone! Really love the great room and the internal open courtyard. It all deserves kudos. I can't wait to see the projects you showcase the rest of the year.
Completely lovely structure by Herbst and co. I’m interested to hear the architect talk more about the design decisions for the inward slopes of the roof and how the building handles the rain water flow. Amazing home 🌳
We hope you enjoyed the breathtaking Kawakawa House by Herbst Architects. Nestled along Auckland's coastline at the base of a mountain slope, this extraordinary home is a heartfelt ode to nature. Inspired by the pōhutukawa trees and the Tasman Sea below, Kawakawa House masterfully integrates architectural elegance with the raw beauty of its surroundings. Kawakawa House was recently featured in Habitats: City, Coast and Forest, our trio of hardcover books. For more of the latest and greatest in architecture and design, be sure to order a copy now: thelocalproject.com.au/product/habitats-city-coast-forest/
How can you say your construction is connected to nature? Nature has no right angles straight lines. This architecture is not connected it is standing out of it. Typically western civilisated word. I don’t see humility, warmth, happiness, playfulness, creativity. It’s designed like all the modern „cube buildings“. The only difference is more woodn materials and more luxury. For only a few people possible to afford it. It’s cutting, cold, transparent. The only positive I see, feel from it is clearity. But what is clearity without connection? We need a cultural revolution and especially in architecture. For this man needs to go down from his high horse on his knees. Feel Touch kiss breath Mother Earth and realise that we are part of her…
I always love it when architects appreciate the beauty of the location and know exactly how to blend the house into it. The wider area is as much of a home as the building is, in my opinion. This whole project looks incredible
We couldn’t agree more! The way this project honours and blends into its surroundings truly makes the wider landscape feel like part of the home.
Like in the old Japanese houses the garden and house fusion.
It must be so rewarding as an architect when a client walks in the door bringing with them a stunning block of land, an open mind and very deep pockets.
I use this channel for calming meditation. Everything is so stunning: the nature, the building design, the high production value, the music, the architect’s voice. Ahhhh, bliss.
We’re glad to hear you're enjoying our channel, it's our pleasure to be able to showcase so many incredible projects 🙌
Another beauty, with a pitch-perfect overview by the architect. His use of simple, clear words (material, not materiality) and poet-level insights and observations make this a joy to watch.
Well said !
Lance really does have a gift for articulating the design process in such an accessible and poetic way. We’re thrilled you enjoyed the video and his overview. It’s always a joy to share stories like this one!
Stunning cinematography, music, and architecture. The storytelling is incredible-so peaceful and captivating. Thank you for sharing this masterpiece.
Thank you so much for your kind words! This project was truly special, and we’re thrilled it left such a peaceful and captivating impression. Appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts.
You said it for me. I second this comment.
I remember stumbling upon Piha Beach back in 2017. I had just flown into Auckland from Dubai and had approximately 15hrs to waste. So I decided at the last minute to rent a car and head west, out of the city looking for a beautiful beach to catch the sunset. The winding road took me down to Piha Beach and to this day it's one of the more memorable spontaneous travel experiences I've ever hand. It's really special to see Piha Beach pop back up in my feed... and in connection with such a lovely home! It really does beautifully embrace of the surrounding environment!!
Thank you for sharing such a wonderful story, Piha Beach truly leaves a lasting impression and we’re so glad this home brought those memories back. It really does embrace the magic of its surroundings beautifully!
This is one of my all time favourite homes on this channel. Beautful. Stunning. Other worldly.
We're glad to hear it!
The videography of the setting is so incredibly immersive and intimate, feels like a love letter to this spot on Earth. Amazing job.
That’s exactly what we hoped to capture - the intimate connection between the home and its incredible setting. It really does feel like a love letter to this special spot on Earth. We’re so glad it resonated with you!
What a masterful storyteller!!
Thank you! The storytelling is such a key part of bringing these projects to life, and it’s amazing to hear that it resonated with you.
Australia could take a leaf from this natured inspired design! Beach houses must take second stage to nature and its surroundings!!! Truly sophisticated and inspiring ❤❤❤
This design is such a great reminder of how architecture can harmonise with nature rather than overshadow it.
Who ever is doing the story telling and the beautiful movie like shots is amazing
That's our dream team, thank you.
The timing of the song, the video clips and the narrative/story is just so perfect and incredible. The cinematography and the direction is this video is 🔥🔥🔥
It’s really great to hear how much you appreciated the flow of the video - the team puts a lot of thought into every detail to bring the story to life. Glad it resonated with you, and we’re pumped you enjoyed it! 🔥
I'm rarely left breathless. Kudos Herbst.
Totally agree - it’s one of those projects that just leaves an impression. Kudos to Herbst indeed, and thanks for sharing your reaction!
As sublime a house as I’ve ever seen. It literally breathes.
Couldn’t agree more - this house has such a unique, alive quality to it. Definitely one of those designs that stays with you. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
as per usual, spectacular cinematography. This significantly elevates the house's virtues
Thank you, Pier! Our team works so hard to capture the essence of each home, and it’s always great to hear that the cinematography enhances the story. This house definitely deserved the spotlight!
unbelievable topography and beautiful architecture merged into one!
It is quite beautiful, especially in amongst the trees and the whole environment. A peace.
Stunning. What a sympathetic design and execution in every dimension.
Appreciate your comment! It really is a beautifully considered design, and Herbst Architects have done an incredible job of balancing the home with its surroundings. Thanks for watching!
What a wonderful design, and play of light, perfect for that area!
The design really does make the most of the natural light and surroundings-it’s such a perfect fit for the area. Glad you enjoyed it!
a real masterpiece of architecture
Absolutely - it’s a standout piece of architecture. Herbst Architects really delivered something special here. Thanks for watching!
I love how lance explained the technical details in a way that facilitated the storytelling of what makes the special so those outside the trade can still appreciate it, excellent storytelling!
Some of the most beautiful greens and play of light I've ever seen! Magnificient
Blown away by the video more than anything else here! Whoever you hired for this, give them a freaking raise!
The most beautiful home I have ever seen.
It's all so incredibly beautiful. The local project seems to find these inspiring homes that defy convention, yet seem so elegantly livable. Poetic architecture.
شكرًا
What a wonderful video. Not only is the house beyond amazing, the narration told such a wonderful story of the building process. Well done !
Stunning property. So sympathetic to the location.
Absolutely agree Salo - the way this home integrates with its surroundings is something special. Herbst Architects really nailed it with this one. Thanks for watching!
this is such a beautiful feature. i met my boyfriend (who‘s gonna be my husband one day) in new zealand (we‘re both from europe so it‘s kinda special) and our first adventure was driving to piha beach with my freshly bought camper-car while barely knowing each other so this video brings back all the memories and makes it even more beautiful for me/us! thank you local project for always putting so much effort into capturing architecture and landscape in a wonderful way.
Thank you for sharing such a beautiful and personal story! It’s amazing how architecture and landscapes can evoke special memories. We’re so glad this video resonated with you and brought back those moments. Wishing you and your boyfriend all the best for your future adventures (and wedding one day)!
@@TheLocalProject Thank you ❤
return to us some day ❤
@@selenaclarke we will!! 🥹
this home would cure depression...stunning
True
Would love to see again in December when the pohutukawa is in bloom ❤ Nice that you can rent this on Airbnb to get the experience too
can we?
Stunning. The contrast of dark and lighter woods and metals is a welcomed change from the usual. The light play with all the glass must be amazing all day long. Wonderful work!
Absolutely beautiful. The camera work is fantastic!
Thank you! We're thrilled you enjoyed the video. Our team puts a lot of effort into capturing the beauty of these homes, and it's great to hear the camera work stood out.
Cinematography is just 👌👌
Stunning, no words can describe how incredibly divine this space and place is.
Lovely house and great video but I almost want another video tour showing off more of the houses in a walkthrough style. Maybe a second channel? I just have no idea what the bedrooms and bathrooms look like and would love to see more.
This is one of the most incredible houses I have ever experienced. The details are superb (the interior railing, the fireplace surround, the glass shower panel. The purposely framed views (can only imagine sitting in bed looking out, and up, at the trees). Absolutely stunning. Thank you.
So many thoughtful decisions made in the details.
Gorgeous home and nature!💚
This video has been quite unique for me... because I know the architect, Lance Herbst. I was at school with you in Newlands when we were kids in SA. My name is Michael W_____r. Such a good experience to see the home that you built, which I really like, and such a beautiful location. Take care of yourself, and thanks Local Project for featuring Lance's work. 👍😃
What a small world! How incredible that you and Lance go way back. We're thrilled you enjoyed the video and the home; it's truly a testament to Lance's talent and the beautiful location.
Very stuning house and beautiful location. Also the cinematography is wonderful and breathtaking, thankful that these videos of yours are free to watch, never stop this lovely content :)
Beautifully crafted building and spaces. The merge is nice and see less, that was delightful to watch! 👌🏾
Stunning. Almost perfect.
I say almost because the bookshelf is getting blasted with sunlight and sunlight is the second biggest enemy of books just after water. So it's a big ooff 😅
Just absolutely magnificent in every way. The love and talent that went into this home is so evident. Dreaming it but then executing it so carefully to protect the site. Thank you for capturing and sharing this masterpiece. I could just imagine being there and watching the shadow and moonlight.
Absolutely mesmerized by the cinematography in this video! The soothing color grading, seamless camera movements, and immersive portrayal of nature create a visual symphony that feels like a serene escape. Truly a masterpiece of storytelling through visuals!
i love the way he described all the specific things about the house. so passionate and make us feel how it feels to live in the house itself. the view, the circulation, every particular things been plan so detail. what a perfect house to live at the seashore.
Possibly the best tree featuring listing on this program. Wonderful feature. Loved the views of the hillside as well.
Wow! A building that is so meticulously designed around trees, and with a view!
Extraordinary. This is my kind of Architecture. Bravo 👏
This is one of the most Instagrammable/Pinterested beach houses around. I am glad we got a story told about it by the architect and the Local Project making it possible!
Love the design and its materials! It’s simple and subtly blends with the landscape. Well done 🙌🏻
This is so incredibly beautiful!
This house is exquisite. And that location is incredible.
It's good to see you guys back. I'm sure I wasn't the only one having withdrawals😅
Thanks for sticking with us! 😊 We’re thrilled to be back, and it’s great to know we were missed. Plenty more exciting projects coming your way this year - hope they’re worth the wait!
Incredible!
I love how the home is nestled among the trees, allows wind and light to easily flow through the home, and fits so perfectly among the trees. It's a beautiful home and a great location.
Breathtakingly beautiful. Congratulations.
Really lovely, anything that is insync with nature is a peaceful place
Love how the light pours inside.
Both my inner photographer and my inner bookish hermit are yelling that they want to live here. Part of why I love my home is the nature right outside my door. There's certain times during certain seasons where I just go out on my porch and just sit there appreciating it. It's lovely to see more homes designed around that nowadays instead of big imposing buildings that clash with the landscape.
Gorgeous!!! And love the appreciation of the trees
Finally a Herbst design🙏
woooooooooooow, remarkable! Tasmania house had me all this time, up until now...now this house is amazing!
That accent is unmistakable… incredible work but then I’m not surprised when you’ve had Kaap Stad as your home once upon a time. Yah boet.
It is! It’s amazing how those roots come through, even in the storytelling. Thanks for the kind words and for recognising that little piece of home!
It’s beautiful, thank you.
New Zealand is STUNNING!
Very well done. The preservation of the site is phenomenal. Totally inviting!
this house moved me so much, really one with nature! left so me inspired
A really beautiful place and home. You guys shot it so well, great episode!
Fantastic, thanks for sharing👍🦋👍🦋👍🦋
Wish it lingered more when exploring the rest of the home. Like 30 seconds spent on the home walkthrough, and 5 minutes of looking at vegetation. That shower door was so cool!
Absolutely loved this one!
Words fail me to describe my experience seeing this...SUCH BEAUTY TO BEHOLD🌏
Beautiful.natural.calming❤
So beautiful and harmony
Happy New Year, everyone! Really love the great room and the internal open courtyard. It all deserves kudos. I can't wait to see the projects you showcase the rest of the year.
Thank you for your support, we can’t wait to share more incredible projects with you this year 🙌
Stunning
stunning all around
Beatiful project. thanks for sharing
really beautiful 🤩
Absolutely stunning.
the truly luxury is the nature...
Beautiful home and landscape x beautifully shot video x
The naps there would be phenomenal !
How beautiful!
Added to Dream House List.
Stunning. Bravo!
“A palate of birch ply”. lol got to love the language of architecture 🤣🤣🤣
Simply beautiful 😍
Simply WOW 😊
Hermosa casa, y muy inspiradora presentación.
Beautiful indeed!!
well spoken.. appreciate your insight and lack of word-vomit
Gorgeous!
building is nice but what a beautiful nature around
Masterpiece 👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾
magnificent
This is breathtaking! Greetings to Aotearoa!
Awesome place, awesome house
Completely lovely structure by Herbst and co. I’m interested to hear the architect talk more about the design decisions for the inward slopes of the roof and how the building handles the rain water flow. Amazing home 🌳