MATIPO TEA HOUSE

We were engaged to lead the design on this new minor dwelling including the built form concept and the interior design. This project was selected as a finalist in the 2024 Dulux Colour Awards,

Designed with Dementia in mind we worked collaboratively with Ethan Hunter Architect to a create home for our client she would feel comfortable in. This home focuses on human wellbeing and spatial functionality that considers the best environment to fulfil the needs of a person with dementia.

The exterior architecture takes its cue from the client’s Kuranda home in the Australian rainforest. A place she lived and enjoyed. The colour palette and wide veranda echo similar architecture and gives a sense of familiarity. Dulux Scoria specifically, was used on the structural veranda elements and the Mist Green colorsteel assists in amplifying the garden/tropical context.

A warm colour palette of buttery yellow, sage green and muted peach was selected. The application of these colours lends both simplicity and richness to the spaces.

Timber features extensively throughout the home. Custom screens, window joinery and wall and ceiling linings contribute to the personality and tactility of the home. The bathroom vanity was designed to suit future accessibility needs.
And light switches and door handles were custom painted to contrast and increase visibility for sight impairments. Both these design decisions were made to be aesthetically suitable outside of these practicalities.

Attention was paid to creating small pockets within the home to stop, sit or work. In each room the view outdoors was carefully selected to enhance the experience of the space.