The Mantles, perched on Durie Hill in Whanganui beside the iconic elevator tower, blends seamlessly into the landscape, becoming ‘of the hill.’ Its design artfully balances privacy with semi-public features like a living deck, offering stunning views of Maunga Ruapehu, Maunga Taranaki, the city, and the awa. Collaborating with Dr. Graham Stoop, the project creates a sense of journey through cascading levels and thoughtful transitions. With six dynamic elevations and a prow-like living deck, the home connects indoor spaces to the ever-changing river and hills. The Mantles transforms site complexities into a harmonious design that celebrates both the land and the client’s vision