After working with Jon (Director of Thorne Group Architecture) over the last couple of years l have seen him produce some phenomenal work that demonstrates incredible diversity, so it was very exciting to hear the news that Jon won 5 awards at the 2017 Resene Architectural Awards Bay of Plenty. Rarely have l worked with a designer that has the flexibility to excel at each brief, irrespective of the size or style that the client is seeking.
“What l do enjoy is creating homes of completely different styles and design format. Each provides is own challenges and rewards. I absolutely do not have a signature design style but will be lead by what appeals to each individual client. Whilst the style and size of each home may differ considerably, l do apply certain design principles to each and every single home. Firstly the home must reflect the client’s needs and secondly, it must optimise passive solar energy and the design principals around this” says Jon.
“I do think that our unique formula has really paid off. That formula Involves Liaising with project managers, builders, suppliers, quantity surveyors and the like from the start of the design process. I find this transparency and involvement from the wider team critical in creating best in practice architectural detailing".
The winning homes:
House on the hill was the recipient of two awards: Winner of the Resene Colour in Design Award and a Commended in the Residential New Home over 300m2 category. This home represents a collaboration between Jon, the client and Mark Cashmore.
Weatherboard Villa Commended in the Residential New Home over 300m2 category
Oceanbeach Road house: Commended in the Residential New Home under 300m2 category
The Thorne Group showhome (designed by Jon), won the Residential Interiors Architectural Design Award. Judges described the home as 'tactile' and noted the subtly lit cedar spine as ‘the main ordering device in a simple linear plan which is offset by neutral tones throughout the remainder of the house'.
