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St Gabriel's was one of the largest and most expensive of the new churches in the Hokianga to be built by 1900. Today, it remains as one of the earliest churches still on its original site and is definitely a Hokianga destination worth making, as it sits on a promontory in clear sight for miles before reaching it.
A contemporary approach was taken with the design renovations. Careful attention was given to maintaining the warmth of the original house’s finishing and textural qualities. The house has been “opened up” to the rear yard including adding volume, a sense of space and connection to the outdoors. A large “Disco Dinorinus” kinetic wind sculpture by Phil Price takes centre stage on the rear lawn.
Axial sight lines are introduced through carefully considered strategic openings, and glazing linking various spaces together.
The most recent additions were modified with larger window fenestration and door openings. Architectural form and spatial qualities are further articulated with the addition of plywood and ceiling batten textures.
