Overlooking the upper reaches of the Waitematā Harbour, this home embraces its semi-rural setting with a collection of spaces and volumes that seamlessly connect to the landscape. The linear plan traverses a gently sloping site, providing views from the entry area through to the centre of the house, and to the landscape and waterfront beyond. It also carefully navigates an existing tree to form an external courtyard that connects the adjacent kitchen, media and living room. Robust, natural finishes and materials, and a simple colour palette produce a down-to-earth home that responds superbly to its context.