Between Bespoke Copper and the Treetop Canopy, A Home Rooted in the Landscape
Nestled within the trees of Mangawhai, this newly completed private residence is a quiet triumph in site-sensitive architecture and refined interior design.
Our brief from the client was simple but profound: create a home deeply connected to the canopy. A place where every window draws the gaze outwards, and every material choice speaks to the surrounding land.
Instigated by Arcline Architecture and brought to life inside by us at Sanctuary Interiors, the result is a modern dwelling that leans into restraint, natural texture, and sculptural form. The exterior, a composition of Flaxpod roofing + joinery, Corten steel, nuwall cladding, and Craftstone, strikes a balance between rawness and refinement — a palette that continues into the interior with thoughtful continuity.
Inside, the kitchen is anchored by a rich copper splashback — a standout feature that ties nature and warmth together, complemented by Caesarstone benchtops, pewter-hued cabinetry, and brushed matte black fixtures. It’s a space that feels grounded and purposeful, and we couldn’t go past Nightworks Studio’s terracotta pendant light for the benchtop, gently tracing the island’s geometry above.
In the stairwell, we designed a custom copper handrail that subtly mirrors the kitchen’s tone, a detail that was as much about material longevity as it was about continuity. Below, oak flooring in Creosote from Floorex flows throughout, met by natural wool carpet underfoot in bedrooms — a deliberate shift from the tactile to the comforting.
Lighting across the home was curated to feel architectural, sculptural, and emotive. A vertical cluster of ribbed glass pendants illuminates the stair void with a soft glow, while sculptural fans in timber tones blend seamlessly into the ceiling planes, adding functionality without visual disruption.
In the bathrooms, the vertical repetition of green artisan gloss tiles creates a visual rhythm — a design cue taken from the trees themselves. Black forest vanities, matt black accessories, and LED mirrors complete the space with refinement .
A selection of curated soft furnishings and styling elements hand picked by us for the home evoke quiet luxury. From natural linens and earthy tones in the master suite to the selection of artisan-crafted, marine grade outdoor furniture, every detail serves to calm and cocoon. Sheers and motorised block-out blinds ensure the interplay between light and privacy is perfectly balanced.
This home isn’t about grand gestures — it’s about the art of restraint, the quality of craftsmanship, and the beauty of placing nature at the heart of design.
Interior Design, procurement + Styling: Sanctuary Interiors
Architect: Arcline Architecture
Photography: Deft Photography
For further project information or to begin your Interior design journey with us, reach out to hello@sanctuaryinteriors.co.nz